Violence against women and girls (VAWG)

If someone’s life or safety is in danger now, call 999.  

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is violence, abusive behaviours and crimes that happen to someone because of their gender. It includes: 

• domestic abuse
• sexual abuse and rape
• stalking and harassment
• female genital mutilation (FGM)
• honour-based abuse
• forced marriage
• sexual exploitation and forced prostitution
• exploitation of girls by gangs
• child abuse and pornography
• technological abuse 

These are serious crimes that can put someone’s life in danger. If it’s happening now, call the police. 

The term recognises that most of these crimes disproportionately affect women and girls. It's important to know that men, boys, and non-binary people can also be victims of these crimes.