Monday 22nd June 2026 | 18:00 - 20:00
Speaker's House, Palace of Westminster, London
Monday 22nd June 2026 | 18:00 - 20:00
Speaker's House, Palace of Westminster, London
SPONSORED BY
SPONSORED BY
MEDIA PARTNER
MEDIA PARTNER
Celebrating Leadership, Courage & Change
Celebrating Leadership, Courage and Change
The Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Awards celebrate the outstanding individuals, charities, policy makers, and volunteers working tirelessly to prevent violence, support survivors, and drive lasting change. This awards reception brings together front-line professionals, survivors, partners, and leaders to recognise courage, innovation, and commitment in tackling gender-based violence.
The Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Awards celebrate the outstanding individuals, charities, policy makers, and volunteers working tirelessly to prevent violence, support survivors, and drive lasting change. This awards reception brings together front-line professionals, survivors, partners, and leaders to recognise courage, innovation, and commitment in tackling gender-based violence.
The Finalist Shortlist is Live
The Finalist Shortlist is Live
More than 250 nominations. Countless stories of courage, compassion and impact. One incredibly difficult task for our judges.
The shortlist for the inaugural Violence Against Women and Girls Awards is now live, recognising individuals, organisations and frontline professionals working to prevent violence against women and girls and create lasting change across the UK.
More than 250 nominations. Countless stories of courage, compassion and impact. One incredibly difficult task for our judges.
The shortlist for the inaugural Violence Against Women and Girls Awards is now live, recognising individuals, organisations and frontline professionals working to prevent violence against women and girls and create lasting change across the UK.
Meet the Finalists
Meet the Finalists
Recognising individuals, organisations and frontline professionals working to prevent violence against women and girls and create lasting change across the UK. Winners will be revealed at the ceremony on 22 June at Speaker’s House, Westminster.
Recognising individuals, organisations and frontline professionals working to prevent violence against women and girls and create lasting change across the UK. Winners will be revealed at the ceremony on 22 June at Speaker’s House, Westminster.
Campaign of the Year Finalists
Campaign of the Year Finalists
Make it Mandatory
Make it Mandatory
Make it Mandatory was founded by Faustine Petron and four friends while they were full-time students, reflecting on their own schooling and the lack of education around relationships and warning signs. The campaign advocates for mandatory Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) to be extended to age 18, closing a policy gap that leaves older students without this education, despite the ONS reporting that 16 to 19-year-olds experience domestic abuse at the highest rate of any age group.
The campaign gathered over 106,000 verified petition signatures and secured government-level attention, including a new commitment in the 2025 VAWG strategy and a House of Lords amendment tabled by Baroness Morgan to the Schools and Wellbeing Bill. Faustine has also secured meetings with senior ministers, including the Skills Minister and the Education Secretary.
Make it Mandatory was founded by Faustine Petron and four friends while they were full-time students, reflecting on their own schooling and the lack of education around relationships and warning signs. The campaign advocates for mandatory Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) to be extended to age 18, closing a policy gap that leaves older students without this education, despite the ONS reporting that 16 to 19-year-olds experience domestic abuse at the highest rate of any age group.
The campaign gathered over 106,000 verified petition signatures and secured government-level attention, including a new commitment in the 2025 VAWG strategy and a House of Lords amendment tabled by Baroness Morgan to the Schools and Wellbeing Bill. Faustine has also secured meetings with senior ministers, including the Skills Minister and the Education Secretary.
#NailDomesticAbuse
#NailDomesticAbuse
Dr Anna Hopkins, Chief Executive of the Lancashire Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, is the driving force behind #NailDomesticAbuse, a campaign that provides free online training to hair, nail, and beauty professionals to help them recognise signs of domestic abuse and safely signpost clients to specialist support. Drawing on her background as a former police officer and academic specialising in VAWG, Anna designed an evidence-based initiative that harnesses the trusted relationships beauty professionals build with their clients.
Since launching in December 2025, the campaign website has received more than 5,500 views, with over 1,100 campaign packs distributed to salons across Lancashire. The campaign has achieved strong media reach, with coverage on BBC One Crimewatch and across a wide range of print and digital outlets.
Dr Anna Hopkins, Chief Executive of the Lancashire Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, is the driving force behind #NailDomesticAbuse, a campaign that provides free online training to hair, nail, and beauty professionals to help them recognise signs of domestic abuse and safely signpost clients to specialist support. Drawing on her background as a former police officer and academic specialising in VAWG, Anna designed an evidence-based initiative that harnesses the trusted relationships beauty professionals build with their clients.
Since launching in December 2025, the campaign website has received more than 5,500 views, with over 1,100 campaign packs distributed to salons across Lancashire. The campaign has achieved strong media reach, with coverage on BBC One Crimewatch and across a wide range of print and digital outlets.
Open Justice for All
Open Justice for All
Open Justice for All was founded by a survivor whose case against her former partner for coercive control and rape ended in a not-guilty verdict. Following the trial, she sought access to court transcripts that could have helped her understand the outcome. Faced with costs of up to £20,000 for those records, she set out to change the law. The campaign centres survivor voices, giving victims the opportunity to share their experiences in media, on radio and television, and on social platforms, either anonymously or by waiving their right to anonymity.
It has had real impact. Since January 2026, all victims are entitled to their sentencing remarks free of charge, a step towards greater transparency and understanding for survivors navigating the courts. The second campaign asked to ensure magistrates’ courts are recorded so victims can access transcripts from those proceedings resulted in an amendment being added to the Courts and Tribunals Bill in late February 2026.
Open Justice for All was founded by a survivor whose case against her former partner for coercive control and rape ended in a not-guilty verdict. Following the trial, she sought access to court transcripts that could have helped her understand the outcome. Faced with costs of up to £20,000 for those records, she set out to change the law. The campaign centres survivor voices, giving victims the opportunity to share their experiences in media, on radio and television, and on social platforms, either anonymously or by waiving their right to anonymity.
It has had real impact. Since January 2026, all victims are entitled to their sentencing remarks free of charge, a step towards greater transparency and understanding for survivors navigating the courts. The second campaign asked to ensure magistrates’ courts are recorded so victims can access transcripts from those proceedings resulted in an amendment being added to the Courts and Tribunals Bill in late February 2026.
Frontline Service Award Finalists
Frontline Service Award Finalists
COPFS Staff:
COPFS Staff:
Crown Office and
Procurator Fiscal Service
Crown Office and
Procurator Fiscal Service
In April 2026, a Scottish court delivered a landmark verdict. Lee Milne was found guilty of culpable homicide after his partner, Kimberly, took her own life following sustained coercive and controlling behaviour. It was the first time, following a trial, that an offender had been held criminally responsible for the suicide of their partner. Milne was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment with a further three-year extension. This ruling could set a legal precedent for future cases.
The case was the result of meticulous work by prosecutors across the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, including the High Court Homicide Team, the National Lead for Domestic Abuse, and colleagues in Crown Counsel and Media Relations. Together, they built an evidence base that proved Milne's abuse was a significant contributing factor in Kimberly's death.
Alongside the prosecution, a carefully coordinated communications strategy ensured the case contributed directly to public understanding of coercive control, reaching millions of people across national and international broadcast and digital outlets.
In April 2026, a Scottish court delivered a landmark verdict. Lee Milne was found guilty of culpable homicide after his partner, Kimberly, took her own life following sustained coercive and controlling behaviour. It was the first time, following a trial, that an offender had been held criminally responsible for the suicide of their partner. Milne was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment with a further three-year extension. This ruling could set a legal precedent for future cases.
The case was the result of meticulous work by prosecutors across the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, including the High Court Homicide Team, the National Lead for Domestic Abuse, and colleagues in Crown Counsel and Media Relations. Together, they built an evidence base that proved Milne's abuse was a significant contributing factor in Kimberly's death.
Alongside the prosecution, a carefully coordinated communications strategy ensured the case contributed directly to public understanding of coercive control, reaching millions of people across national and international broadcast and digital outlets.
Revenge Porn Helpline:
Revenge Porn Helpline:
SWGfL (South West Grid
for Learning)
SWGfL (South West Grid
for Learning)
The Revenge Porn Helpline is the UK's only dedicated service for victims of non-consensual intimate image abuse – a rapidly evolving and deeply harmful form of technology-facilitated abuse. Since its launch, the Helpline has supported over 22,000 reports and achieved a consistent content removal rate of around 90 per cent, enabling the removal of more than 305,000 non-consensual intimate images.
The service has seen a 20.9 per cent increase in reports compared to the previous year, reflecting both rising demand and growing awareness. Beyond direct support, it has developed world-leading technical tools, including StopNCII.org, that allow survivors to protect their privacy proactively. It has also contributed evidence to government consultations, supporting reforms under the Online Safety Act and shaping multi-agency responses to image-based abuse.
The Helpline ensures advisors provide non-judgmental, empathetic support, prioritising survivors' safety, choice and control at all stages.
The Revenge Porn Helpline is the UK's only dedicated service for victims of non-consensual intimate image abuse – a rapidly evolving and deeply harmful form of technology-facilitated abuse. Since its launch, the Helpline has supported over 22,000 reports and achieved a consistent content removal rate of around 90 per cent, enabling the removal of more than 305,000 non-consensual intimate images.
The service has seen a 20.9 per cent increase in reports compared to the previous year, reflecting both rising demand and growing awareness. Beyond direct support, it has developed world-leading technical tools, including StopNCII.org, that allow survivors to protect their privacy proactively. It has also contributed evidence to government consultations, supporting reforms under the Online Safety Act and shaping multi-agency responses to image-based abuse.
The Helpline ensures advisors provide non-judgmental, empathetic support, prioritising survivors' safety, choice and control at all stages.
The DIVAS Group
The DIVAS Group
The DIVAS are a group of volunteers with learning disabilities and/or who are autistic or neurodivergent, all of whom are survivors of domestic abuse and/or sexual violence. Supported by the Women's Centre Cornwall as part of its Community Engagement Project, the DIVAS deliver peer support, training, and advocacy to address the significant and often overlooked barriers facing disabled survivors. Disabled women are twice as likely as non-disabled women to experience sexual assault.
The DIVAS work to ensure that women with learning disabilities receive accessible, specialist support, including one-to-one support, peer group facilitation, and professional training. Their recent adaptation of the international Duluth Power and Control Wheel makes information about abuse more accessible for women with learning disabilities, and their wider campaigning challenges the attitudes and systems that too often leave disabled survivors without the support they need.
The DIVAS are a group of volunteers with learning disabilities and/or who are autistic or neurodivergent, all of whom are survivors of domestic abuse and/or sexual violence. Supported by the Women's Centre Cornwall as part of its Community Engagement Project, the DIVAS deliver peer support, training, and advocacy to address the significant and often overlooked barriers facing disabled survivors. Disabled women are twice as likely as non-disabled women to experience sexual assault.
The DIVAS work to ensure that women with learning disabilities receive accessible, specialist support, including one-to-one support, peer group facilitation, and professional training. Their recent adaptation of the international Duluth Power and Control Wheel makes information about abuse more accessible for women with learning disabilities, and their wider campaigning challenges the attitudes and systems that too often leave disabled survivors without the support they need.
Grassroots Community Award Finalists
Grassroots Community
Award Finalists
Domestic Abuse
Safety Unit (DASU)
Domestic Abuse
Safety Unit (DASU)
The Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU), based in Wrexham, receives a new referral every 12 minutes, with many clients presenting with multiple complex needs and limited resources. The service provides 24/7 access to refuges across the region and contacts every referral within 24 hours to provide frontline, trauma-informed support.
Through safety planning, emergency refuge, advocacy, and emotional support, DASU helps survivors navigate housing, the criminal justice system, injunctions, and a wide range of statutory services. On average, the adults referred to DASU have two children, all of whom are recognised as victims in their own right.
Survivors are central to how the service operates and develops. Feedback is gathered through anonymous links and focus groups, and survivors participate directly in recruitment processes through survivor panels. DASU is committed to identifying and removing barriers for victims of domestic abuse, ensuring that those with the most complex needs can still access timely, effective support.
The Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU), based in Wrexham, receives a new referral every 12 minutes, with many clients presenting with multiple complex needs and limited resources. The service provides 24/7 access to refuges across the region and contacts every referral within 24 hours to provide frontline, trauma-informed support.
Through safety planning, emergency refuge, advocacy, and emotional support, DASU helps survivors navigate housing, the criminal justice system, injunctions, and a wide range of statutory services. On average, the adults referred to DASU have two children, all of whom are recognised as victims in their own right.
Survivors are central to how the service operates and develops. Feedback is gathered through anonymous links and focus groups, and survivors participate directly in recruitment processes through survivor panels. DASU is committed to identifying and removing barriers for victims of domestic abuse, ensuring that those with the most complex needs can still access timely, effective support.
Shewise
Shewise
SHEWISE, is a grassroots organisation based in Hounslow, Tower Hamlets, and Newham, supporting women and girls to build safer, more secure lives by promoting social, economic, and educational wellbeing. Rooted in a culturally responsive, trauma-informed approach, SHEWISE offers free, confidential, bilingual support to those experiencing domestic and sexual abuse and honour-based violence, alongside help navigating structural challenges.
Their work centres on minoritised women and girls, particularly from South Asian and Middle Eastern communities. SHEWISE fills a critical gap in mainstream provision, reaching women facing barriers including language, stigma, immigration concerns, and community pressure. Through the Women’s Resource Hub, women can rebuild confidence, access bilingual workshops, wellbeing support, and pathways into employment and entrepreneurship.
Every woman who comes through the Hub is encouraged to share her story in her own words, at her own pace, and in her own language. Regular consultation groups and feedback circles ensure survivors actively shape services and inform wider advocacy making Shewise a model of community-embedded, survivor-led practice.
SHEWISE, is a grassroots organisation based in Hounslow, Tower Hamlets, and Newham, supporting women and girls to build safer, more secure lives by promoting social, economic, and educational wellbeing. Rooted in a culturally responsive, trauma-informed approach, SHEWISE offers free, confidential, bilingual support to those experiencing domestic and sexual abuse and honour-based violence, alongside help navigating structural challenges.
Their work centres on minoritised women and girls, particularly from South Asian and Middle Eastern communities. SHEWISE fills a critical gap in mainstream provision, reaching women facing barriers including language, stigma, immigration concerns, and community pressure. Through the Women’s Resource Hub, women can rebuild confidence, access bilingual workshops, wellbeing support, and pathways into employment and entrepreneurship.
Every woman who comes through the Hub is encouraged to share her story in her own words, at her own pace, and in her own language. Regular consultation groups and feedback circles ensure survivors actively shape services and inform wider advocacy making Shewise a model of community-embedded, survivor-led practice.
The Night Angels
The Night Angels
Founded by domestic abuse survivor Chrissie Lowery, the Night Angels are a team of volunteers who patrol on weekend evenings, providing visible reassurance and practical support to women and others who feel vulnerable in the night-time economy.
Established in December 2023 in response to mounting concerns about women's safety following a series of sexual assaults in Stroud, the Night Angels offer first aid, safe transport home, water, phone charging, anti-spiking protection, and calm, non-judgmental assistance to anyone in distress. The Night Angels have expanded beyond Stroud, growing into Swindon and Gloucester, with plans to grow into other areas of the UK. In 2025, Train Angels was launched in partnership with Great Western Railway to improve safety on trains in response to rising reports of sexual harassment.
As the Night Angels work closely with local businesses, emergency services, and community partners, they are building a culture of shared responsibility for public safety - highlighting the power of turning lived experience into life-saving action.
Founded by domestic abuse survivor Chrissie Lowery, the Night Angels are a team of volunteers who patrol on weekend evenings, providing visible reassurance and practical support to women and others who feel vulnerable in the night-time economy.
Established in December 2023 in response to mounting concerns about women's safety following a series of sexual assaults in Stroud, the Night Angels offer first aid, safe transport home, water, phone charging, anti-spiking protection, and calm, non-judgmental assistance to anyone in distress. The Night Angels have expanded beyond Stroud, growing into Swindon and Gloucester, with plans to grow into other areas of the UK. In 2025, Train Angels was launched in partnership with Great Western Railway to improve safety on trains in response to rising reports of sexual harassment.
As the Night Angels work closely with local businesses, emergency services, and community partners, they are building a culture of shared responsibility for public safety - highlighting the power of turning lived experience into life-saving action.
Media Contribution of the Year Finalists
Media Contribution of
the Year Finalists
Laura Hills
Laura Hills
Former Head of Planning,
Loose Women
Former Head of Planning,
Loose Women
As the former head of planning at ITV’s Loose Women, Laura Hills demonstrated outstanding commitment to raising awareness of domestic abuse through responsible, high-impact media engagement. She led the show’s work with Refuge, building a strong working relationship and actively seeking expert input to shape content that was both impactful and appropriate.
Laura created media opportunities for survivors, working closely with Refuge to facilitate contributions from ambassadors such as Zara McDermott and Cherie Blair, while ensuring these were supported by expert input and clear signposting to support services, notably Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
She consistently demonstrated understanding of frontline realities by giving advance notice of shows likely to increase Helpline demand. She also secured in-kind TikTok advertising credits for Refuge, enabling campaigns that reached 12.3 million people, generated 47.8 million impressions and drove 120,000 clicks – impact beyond Refuge’s existing budgets. Laura has consistently gone above and beyond to proactively champion this agenda, dedicating time, care, and influence to ensure domestic abuse is covered responsibly and meaningfully, something she hopes to continue in her new role as Series Producer at Spirit Studios.
As the former head of planning at ITV’s Loose Women, Laura Hills demonstrated outstanding commitment to raising awareness of domestic abuse through responsible, high-impact media engagement. She led the show’s work with Refuge, building a strong working relationship and actively seeking expert input to shape content that was both impactful and appropriate.
Laura created media opportunities for survivors, working closely with Refuge to facilitate contributions from ambassadors such as Zara McDermott and Cherie Blair, while ensuring these were supported by expert input and clear signposting to support services, notably Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
She consistently demonstrated understanding of frontline realities by giving advance notice of shows likely to increase Helpline demand. She also secured in-kind TikTok advertising credits for Refuge, enabling campaigns that reached 12.3 million people, generated 47.8 million impressions and drove 120,000 clicks – impact beyond Refuge’s existing budgets. Laura has consistently gone above and beyond to proactively champion this agenda, dedicating time, care, and influence to ensure domestic abuse is covered responsibly and meaningfully, something she hopes to continue in her new role as Series Producer at Spirit Studios..
Mollie Malone
Mollie Malone
News correspondent,
Sky News
News correspondent,
Sky News
A recent investigation by Mollie Malone and Sky News exposed systemic failures within policing in relation to violence against women and girls. Using FOI data from across 17 police forces, she discovered that every single responding force had investigated its own officers for rape or sexual offences since Sarah Everard’s murder. Her reporting revealed the scale of sexual misconduct investigations involving serving officers, challenging narratives that such cases are isolated.
Her story received national attention and prompted senior policing figures to publicly acknowledge the issue. It also added direct pressure for government reforms, including the automatic suspension presumption for officers investigated for sexual or domestic offences.
By combining powerful data with compelling survivor testimony, Mollie delivers reporting that holds institutions to account while centring the lived realities of women and girls.
A recent investigation by Mollie Malone and Sky News exposed systemic failures within policing in relation to violence against women and girls. Using FOI data from across 17 police forces, she discovered that every single responding force had investigated its own officers for rape or sexual offences since Sarah Everard’s murder. Her reporting revealed the scale of sexual misconduct investigations involving serving officers, challenging narratives that such cases are isolated.
Her story received national attention and prompted senior policing figures to publicly acknowledge the issue. It also added direct pressure for government reforms, including the automatic suspension presumption for officers investigated for sexual or domestic offences.
By combining powerful data with compelling survivor testimony, Mollie delivers reporting that holds institutions to account while centring the lived realities of women and girls.
Vicky Shaw
Vicky Shaw
Personal Finance Correspondent
The Press Association
Personal Finance Correspondent
The Press Association
Vicky Shaw’s journalism has contributed to bringing economic abuse to the awareness of a wide national audience across major UK news outlets, including the Independent, Yahoo News, London Evening Standard and many more.
Vicky regularly reports on research, policy developments and sector initiatives related to economic abuse, translating complex findings into accessible and responsible journalism. Her coverage highlights the economic barriers survivors face when trying to leave perpetrators, as well as the ongoing abuse they face post-separation. By highlighting this, her reporting helps shift public understanding of domestic abuse beyond physical violence to include economic control.
Rather than sensationalising individual stories, she contextualises survivors’ experiences within the wider structural and financial systems that enable domestic abusers. Her sustained commitment to covering economic abuse has significantly increased visibility of this issue within national media.
Vicky Shaw’s journalism has contributed to bringing economic abuse to the awareness of a wide national audience across major UK news outlets, including the Independent, Yahoo News, London Evening Standard and many more.
Vicky regularly reports on research, policy developments and sector initiatives related to economic abuse, translating complex findings into accessible and responsible journalism. Her coverage highlights the economic barriers survivors face when trying to leave perpetrators, as well as the ongoing abuse they face post-separation. By highlighting this, her reporting helps shift public understanding of domestic abuse beyond physical violence to include economic control.
Rather than sensationalising individual stories, she contextualises survivors’ experiences within the wider structural and financial systems that enable domestic abusers. Her sustained commitment to covering economic abuse has significantly increased visibility of this issue within national media.
Parliamentarian Ally of the Year Finalists
Parliamentarian Ally of
the Year Finalists
Jess Asato MP
Jess Asato MP
Member of Parliament
Labour
Member of Parliament
Labour
Jess Asato MP has brought years of frontline expertise, including roles at SafeLives and as Head of Policy at Barnardo's, directly into parliamentary advocacy for victims and survivors of violence against women and girls. In Parliament, she has championed amendments to the Victims and Courts Bill to strengthen specialist domestic abuse and sexual violence services, raised the urgent need for sustainable funding for rape crisis centres and refuges, and worked to highlight the experiences of non-abusing parents and carers whose children have experienced sexual abuse.
In December 2025, she was appointed VAWG Adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care, with responsibility for embedding specialist support into neighbourhood health services and improving local commissioning, shifting the framing of VAWG from solely a criminal justice issue to a public health emergency. She plays a key role in the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse, convening sector specialists and frontline organisations to shape government strategy.
Jess Asato MP has brought years of frontline expertise, including roles at SafeLives and as Head of Policy at Barnardo's, directly into parliamentary advocacy for victims and survivors of violence against women and girls. In Parliament, she has championed amendments to the Victims and Courts Bill to strengthen specialist domestic abuse and sexual violence services, raised the urgent need for sustainable funding for rape crisis centres and refuges, and worked to highlight the experiences of non-abusing parents and carers whose children have experienced sexual abuse.
In December 2025, she was appointed VAWG Adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care, with responsibility for embedding specialist support into neighbourhood health services and improving local commissioning, shifting the framing of VAWG from solely a criminal justice issue to a public health emergency. She plays a key role in the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse, convening sector specialists and frontline organisations to shape government strategy.
Baroness Bertin
Baroness Bertin
Peer, House of Lords
Peer, House of Lords
Baroness Bertin has been a sustained and powerful advocate in the fight against violence against women and girls, bringing personal conviction and political determination to some of the most challenging areas of the sector.
Her Independent Pornography Review exposed the scale of harm caused by unregulated online pornography and the ways in which it fuels offline abuse of women and children. Through the Pornography Review Taskforce she established, she has brought together parliamentarians, third sector organisations, policing, education, and the tech industry to build the case for meaningful regulation.
Her work amending the Crime and Policing Bill, including the banning of depictions of strangulation, incest, and content that mimics child sexual abuse material, represents significant legislative progress. As co-chair of the Domestic Abuse All-Party Parliamentary Group alongside Apsana Begum MP, she has consistently ensured that the voices of those with lived experience of domestic abuse are heard and given the weight they deserve.
Baroness Bertin has been a sustained and powerful advocate in the fight against violence against women and girls, bringing personal conviction and political determination to some of the most challenging areas of the sector.
Her Independent Pornography Review exposed the scale of harm caused by unregulated online pornography and the ways in which it fuels offline abuse of women and children. Through the Pornography Review Taskforce she established, she has brought together parliamentarians, third sector organisations, policing, education, and the tech industry to build the case for meaningful regulation.
Her work amending the Crime and Policing Bill, including the banning of depictions of strangulation, incest, and content that mimics child sexual abuse material, represents significant legislative progress. As co-chair of the Domestic Abuse All-Party Parliamentary Group alongside Apsana Begum MP, she has consistently ensured that the voices of those with lived experience of domestic abuse are heard and given the weight they deserve.
Baroness Owen
Baroness Owen
Peer, House of Lords
Peer, House of Lords
Baroness Owen has been the driving force behind landmark legislative change in the protection of victims of non-consensual intimate image abuse and deepfake pornography.
She proposed the Non-Consensual Sexually Explicit Images and Videos (Offences) Bill, targeting the creation and requesting of deepfake sexual images, and campaigned persistently alongside survivors and academics until the government adopted this approach. Her amendments have introduced a statutory 48-hour takedown requirement, measures to prevent duplicate re-uploads, and stronger court powers to secure the deletion of abusive material. She also secured agreement for a statutory NCII Register to prevent the recirculation of known abusive content.
Crucially, her work has shifted the legal focus onto consent rather than requiring victims to prove intent to harm – a change that has enabled wider movement on non-consensual intimate imagery, including government action on nudification apps. Her approach throughout has been survivor-centred, working closely with victims, advocacy groups, and specialists to ensure solutions are practical and effective.
Baroness Owen has been the driving force behind landmark legislative change in the protection of victims of non-consensual intimate image abuse and deepfake pornography.
She proposed the Non-Consensual Sexually Explicit Images and Videos (Offences) Bill, targeting the creation and requesting of deepfake sexual images, and campaigned persistently alongside survivors and academics until the government adopted this approach. Her amendments have introduced a statutory 48-hour takedown requirement, measures to prevent duplicate re-uploads, and stronger court powers to secure the deletion of abusive material. She also secured agreement for a statutory NCII Register to prevent the recirculation of known abusive content.
Crucially, her work has shifted the legal focus onto consent rather than requiring victims to prove intent to harm – a change that has enabled wider movement on non-consensual intimate imagery, including government action on nudification apps. Her approach throughout has been survivor-centred, working closely with victims, advocacy groups, and specialists to ensure solutions are practical and effective.
Volunteer of the Year Finalists
Volunteer of the Year Finalists
Vivienne Barker
Vivienne Barker
Bromley & Croydon Women's Aid
Bromley & Croydon Women's Aid
Vivienne Barker has been a Donations Volunteer at Bromley & Croydon Women’s Aid for over 12 years. She manages in-kind donations from supporters, ensuring survivors of abuse have the essential items they need to rebuild their lives. Over that time, she has supported more than 3,600 women and children who have fled domestic abuse, giving over 4,800 hours of her time.
Recognising that many survivors move into housing without basic necessities, Barker pioneered “starter packs” containing essential items for families starting again after trauma.
One survivor said, “When we arrived at the refuge, they gave us donated clothes and food and showed us the room we would be in. Without the help of the refuge workers, I don’t know where I would be. The first night there, I watched my son sleep and, for the first time in a long time, he looked calm. He slept through the night.”
Vivienne Barker has been a Donations Volunteer at Bromley & Croydon Women’s Aid for over 12 years. She manages in-kind donations from supporters, ensuring survivors of abuse have the essential items they need to rebuild their lives. Over that time, she has supported more than 3,600 women and children who have fled domestic abuse, giving over 4,800 hours of her time.
Recognising that many survivors move into housing without basic necessities, Barker pioneered “starter packs” containing essential items for families starting again after trauma.
One survivor said, “When we arrived at the refuge, they gave us donated clothes and food and showed us the room we would be in. Without the help of the refuge workers, I don’t know where I would be. The first night there, I watched my son sleep and, for the first time in a long time, he looked calm. He slept through the night.”
Ryan Davis
Ryan Davis
Trustee, Tender
Trustee, Tender
Ryan Davis is a Trustee at Tender, a charity that uses drama to teach young people about healthy relationships, including consent, respect and challenging harmful behaviour. Ryan joined Tender’s Youth Board in 2024 and now sits on its Trustee Board.
During his time on the Youth Board, Ryan contributed to the Domestic Abuse Commissioner’s 2025 Victims in their Own Right report, supported the development of specialist prevention projects for care-experienced young people, helped shape professional training, and contributed to resources linked to Netflix’s Adolescence and a range of Tender projects. During Ryan’s involvement with Tender, projects preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence in the lives of young people have reached over 24,500 young people and 8,500 adults.
Colleagues report that in internal conversations, Ryan consistently redirects focus away from himself and onto the women and girls in the room, and that he demonstrates both humility and bravery, keeping the focus firmly on the cause.
Ryan Davis is a Trustee at Tender, a charity that uses drama to teach young people about healthy relationships, including consent, respect and challenging harmful behaviour. Ryan joined Tender’s Youth Board in 2024 and now sits on its Trustee Board.
During his time on the Youth Board, Ryan contributed to the Domestic Abuse Commissioner’s 2025 Victims in their Own Right report, supported the development of specialist prevention projects for care-experienced young people, helped shape professional training, and contributed to resources linked to Netflix’s Adolescence and a range of Tender projects. During Ryan’s involvement with Tender, projects preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence in the lives of young people have reached over 24,500 young people and 8,500 adults.
Colleagues report that in internal conversations, Ryan consistently redirects focus away from himself and onto the women and girls in the room, and that he demonstrates both humility and bravery, keeping the focus firmly on the cause.
Victoria Mason
Victoria Mason
Partnership Development
Lead, Own My Life
Partnership Development
Lead, Own My Life
Victoria Mason is Partnership Development Lead at Own My Life, a 12-week programme helping women regain control of their lives after abuse. Through strategic partnerships, she has helped expand the programme’s reach to nearly 21,000 women. Participants report increased confidence, reduced self-blame, improved wellbeing and stronger engagement with career progression. Victoria played a central role in expanding Own My Life into Northern Ireland, where rates of male violence are among the highest in Europe.
A former Metropolitan Police officer, Victoria identified a critical gap in support for female officers and staff experiencing abuse, including from partners within policing. Victoria prioritises dignity, choice and empowerment at every stage, ensuring women not only receive support but help to shape the services they use.
Victoria Mason is Partnership Development Lead at Own My Life, a 12-week programme helping women regain control of their lives after abuse. Through strategic partnerships, she has helped expand the programme’s reach to nearly 21,000 women. Participants report increased confidence, reduced self-blame, improved wellbeing and stronger engagement with career progression. Victoria played a central role in expanding Own My Life into Northern Ireland, where rates of male violence are among the highest in Europe.
A former Metropolitan Police officer, Victoria identified a critical gap in support for female officers and staff experiencing abuse, including from partners within policing. Victoria prioritises dignity, choice and empowerment at every stage, ensuring women not only receive support but help to shape the services they use.
Survivor Ambassador Award Finalists
Survivor Ambassador
Award Finalists
Yasmin Javed
Yasmin Javed
Yasmin Javed's daughter Fawziyah, a 31-year-old aspiring lawyer who was pregnant with her first child, was murdered by her husband in September 2021. Prior to her death, Fawziyah had reported abuse to police. In the face of devastating loss, Yasmin has channelled her grief into systemic change. In an unprecedented decision, she permitted television cameras to follow her through the Scottish court trial, resulting in the two-part Channel 4 documentary The Push, broadcast in 2024. She waived her right to give evidence from behind a screen, choosing instead to face the perpetrator directly in court.
Alongside charity Karma Nirvana, Yasmin has spearheaded the Push for Change campaign, calling for a legal definition of honour-based abuse. The government has since tabled amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill in response. She continues to speak at conferences and in the media, ensuring that the failures which led to Fawziyah's death are not repeated.
Yasmin Javed's daughter Fawziyah, a 31-year-old aspiring lawyer who was pregnant with her first child, was murdered by her husband in September 2021. Prior to her death, Fawziyah had reported abuse to police. In the face of devastating loss, Yasmin has channelled her grief into systemic change. In an unprecedented decision, she permitted television cameras to follow her through the Scottish court trial, resulting in the two-part Channel 4 documentary The Push, broadcast in 2024. She waived her right to give evidence from behind a screen, choosing instead to face the perpetrator directly in court.
Alongside charity Karma Nirvana, Yasmin has spearheaded the Push for Change campaign, calling for a legal definition of honour-based abuse. The government has since tabled amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill in response. She continues to speak at conferences and in the media, ensuring that the failures which led to Fawziyah's death are not repeated.
Pauline Jones
Pauline Jones
In 2019, Pauline Jones’ daughter Bethany Rae Fields was brutally murdered by her ex-partner despite her going to the police several times to raise concerns. In the face of unimaginable grief, Pauline has used her experience to campaign tirelessly to prevent any other family having to go through what she has. Pauline set up the Believe, React, Fast (BRF) campaign, so named after Bethany’s initials, to ensure victims are believed and police act quickly and decisively.
Pauline’s campaign has received high levels of national and media attention, including being referenced by the Prime Minister during Prime Ministers Questions, and it has received support from The Queen. Last year, Pauline met with the Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls ahead of the publication of the white paper Freedom from violence and abuse: a cross-government strategy to build a safer society for women and girls. Many of the key themes of the BRF campaign are embedded within the white paper.
Through Pauline’s campaign, Bethany’s legacy lives on.
In 2019, Pauline Jones’ daughter Bethany Rae Fields was brutally murdered by her ex-partner despite her going to the police several times to raise concerns. In the face of unimaginable grief, Pauline has used her experience to campaign tirelessly to prevent any other family having to go through what she has. Pauline set up the Believe, React, Fast (BRF) campaign, so named after Bethany’s initials, to ensure victims are believed and police act quickly and decisively.
Pauline’s campaign has received high levels of national and media attention, including being referenced by the Prime Minister during Prime Ministers Questions, and it has received support from The Queen. Last year, Pauline met with the Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls ahead of the publication of the white paper Freedom from violence and abuse: a cross-government strategy to build a safer society for women and girls. Many of the key themes of the BRF campaign are embedded within the white paper.
Through Pauline’s campaign, Bethany’s legacy lives on.
Claire Throssell
Claire Throssell
Survivor Ambassador,
Women's Aid
Survivor Ambassador,
Women's Aid
In 2014, Claire Throssell's sons Jack, aged 12, and Paul, aged 9, were killed by their father during a court-ordered contact visit, despite repeated warnings that he posed a danger. The family courts had granted unsupervised contact in line with the legal presumption that both parents should have access to their children.
Since then, Claire has dedicated herself to ensuring no other child is placed at risk through unsafe contact arrangements. Through Women's Aid's Child First campaign, she drove a petition signed by more than 110,000 people, undertook extensive media work, and helped stage a powerful event outside Parliament – a choir of 19 children, representing the 19 children killed through unsafe contact arrangements in the past decade.
In October 2025, the Ministry of Justice announced it would repeal the presumption of parental involvement in the Courts and Tribunals Bill. The government explicitly credited Claire's decade of campaigning in making this commitment. It is, in Claire's own words, the fulfilment of the final promise she made to her sons.
In 2014, Claire Throssell's sons Jack, aged 12, and Paul, aged 9, were killed by their father during a court-ordered contact visit, despite repeated warnings that he posed a danger. The family courts had granted unsupervised contact in line with the legal presumption that both parents should have access to their children.
Since then, Claire has dedicated herself to ensuring no other child is placed at risk through unsafe contact arrangements. Through Women's Aid's Child First campaign, she drove a petition signed by more than 110,000 people, undertook extensive media work, and helped stage a powerful event outside Parliament – a choir of 19 children, representing the 19 children killed through unsafe contact arrangements in the past decade.
In October 2025, the Ministry of Justice announced it would repeal the presumption of parental involvement in the Courts and Tribunals Bill. The government explicitly credited Claire's decade of campaigning in making this commitment. It is, in Claire's own words, the fulfilment of the final promise she made to her sons.
Meet The Judges
Meet The Judges
Our judges are united by a shared commitment to recognising those making a real difference in preventing violence against women and girls. Each brings valuable perspective and expertise to the judging process.
Our judges are united by a shared commitment to recognising those making a real difference in preventing violence against women and girls. Each brings valuable perspective and expertise to the judging process.
Alex McIntyre MP
MP for Gloucester
"The Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Awards are a vital opportunity to recognise the individuals and organisations who do so much to support, empower and rebuild the lives of women and girls impacted by violence.
We all need to remember our responsibility to end violence against women and girls, and the opportunity to honour the people taking on that responsibility day in and day out is a huge privilege."
"The Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Awards are a vital opportunity to recognise the individuals and organisations who do so much to support, empower and rebuild the lives of women and girls impacted by violence.
We all need to remember our responsibility to end violence against women and girls, and the opportunity to honour the people taking on that responsibility day in and day out is a huge privilege."
Dr Nicola Sharp-Jeffs, OBE
Founder and former CEO of Surviving Economic Abuse
“I’m excited to join the judging panel for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Awards.
Not only is it an opportunity to demonstrate my support for the Awards, but also to recognise and celebrate excellence in the field.”
“I’m excited to join the judging panel for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Awards.
Not only is it an opportunity to demonstrate my support for the Awards, but also to recognise and celebrate excellence in the field.”
Rebecca Smith MP
MP and Chair of the Plymouth VAWG Commission
“Sometimes when we look at the ongoing challenge of tackling violence against women and girls, it is easy to lose sight of the positive changes already taking place.
I am excited about the Total Politics VAWG awards because they shine a light on the brilliant individuals and organisations who are doing the hard work on the ground, dedicating themselves to bringing change where they are."
“Sometimes when we look at the ongoing challenge of tackling violence against women and girls, it is easy to lose sight of the positive changes already taking place.
I am excited about the Total Politics VAWG awards becuase they shine a light on the brilliant individuals and organisations who are doing the hard work on the ground, dedicating themselves to bringing change where they are."
Wendy Chamberlain MP
MP for North East Fife
“Tackling violence against women and girls is an issue I care deeply about, both as a parliamentarian and through my wider advocacy work.
These awards provide a vital opportunity to celebrate best practice, share learning, and shine a light on the dedication of individuals and organisations who too often go unrecognised, and I would welcome the opportunity to contribute by helping to assess and promote their outstanding work.
“Tackling violence against women and girls is an issue I care deeply about, both as a parliamentarian and through my wider advocacy work.
These awards provide a vital opportunity to celebrate best practice, share learning, and shine a light on the dedication of individuals and organisations who too often go unrecognised, and I would welcome the opportunity to contribute by helping to assess and promote their outstanding work.
“It’s a privilege to be joining the panel for the Prevention of Violence Against Women Awards, recognising the vital work being done across policy, campaigns and frontline services.
As a journalist based in Parliament, with a particular interest in women’s justice and health, I hope to contribute insight into how political leadership and media coverage can drive change through scrutiny, storytelling and advocacy.”
Sienna Rodgers
Deputy Editor,
The House Magazine
“It’s a privilege to be joining the panel for the Prevention of Violence Against Women Awards, recognising the vital work being done across policy, campaigns and frontline services.
As a journalist based in Parliament, with a particular interest in women’s justice and health, I hope to contribute insight into how political leadership and media coverage can drive change through scrutiny, storytelling and advocacy.”
Andrew McIntyre
Head of Government Affairs, TSB Bank
“I’m pleased to join this panel as part of TSB’s continued commitment to supporting people affected by domestic abuse. Through initiatives like the TSB Flee Fund and the Safe Spaces available in our branches, we’re focused on providing practical, immediate help for those seeking safety.
These awards are an important opportunity to recognise the organisations and individuals driving real change, and I’m proud to stand alongside them in strengthening protections and support for survivors.”
“I’m pleased to join this panel as part of TSB’s continued commitment to supporting people affected by domestic abuse. Through initiatives like the TSB Flee Fund and the Safe Spaces available in our branches, we’re focused on providing practical, immediate help for those seeking safety.
These awards are an important opportunity to recognise the organisations and individuals driving real change, and I’m proud to stand alongside them in strengthening protections and support for survivors.”
In Partnership with TSB
In Partnership
with TSB
TSB is a trusted retail bank with a 200‑year heritage and a committed workforce providing full‑service banking to over five million customers. We continue to lead on improvements for customers and colleagues, offering all branches as safe spaces and supporting those leaving abusive relationships through our Flee Fund. We also provide enhanced paid leave for colleagues with caring responsibilities and equal parental leave, reflecting our commitment to a supportive and inclusive culture.
TSB is a trusted retail bank with a 200‑year heritage and a committed workforce providing full‑service banking to over five million customers. We continue to lead on improvements for customers and colleagues, offering all branches as safe spaces and supporting those leaving abusive relationships through our Flee Fund.
We also provide enhanced paid leave for colleagues with caring responsibilities and equal parental leave, reflecting our commitment to a supportive and inclusive culture.
FAQs
Award FAQs
How do I enter the awards?
How do I enter the awards?
Entries for the 2026 awards have now closed.
When do the awards entries close?
When do the awards entries close?
Wednesday 15th April 2026.
Wednesday 15th April 2026.
Who organises The VAWG Awards?
Who organises The VAWG Awards?
The Prevention of VAWG Awards is organised by Total Politics, supported by TSB Bank, and the media partner is The House Magazine.
The Prevention of VAWG Awards is organised by Total Politics, supported by TSB Bank, and the media partner is The House Magazine.
When and where will the awards be taking place?
When and where will the awards be taking place?
22 June 2026 | 18:00 - 20:00 | Speaker's House, Palace of Westminster, London.
22 June 2026 | 18:00 - 20:00 | Speaker's House, Palace of Westminster, London.
Is there a cost to enter the awards?
It is free of charge to submit a nomination for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Awards. If you are successfully shortlisted, there is no entry fee to attend the award ceremony.
Who are the judges?
Who are the judges?
Our Board of Judges will be announced soon, bringing together individuals with cross-party political experience alongside professionals with industry and journalism expertise.
Our Board of Judges will be announced soon, bringing together individuals with cross-party political experience alongside professionals with industry and journalism expertise.
Does the individual and/or organisation need to be in the UK?
Yes. Unfortunately, we cannot accept nominees outside the UK.
Can I nominate myself?
Nominees may be nominated by someone else, or may nominate themselves if they meet the criteria.
When will the winners be announced?
When will the shortlisted and winners be announced?
22 June 2026 | 18:00 - 20:00 | Speaker's House, Palace of Westminster, London.
The shortlisted will be announced at least 30 days before the event.
What is the entry criteria for the Awards?
What is the entry criteria for the Awards?
In selecting the shortlist, the judges will consider:
- Impact, Prevention & Effectiveness: Demonstrates a clear, and positive impact on survivors, or can demonstrate their contribution to preventative work, that reduces harm, risk or future abuse.
- It is useful to include evidence of meaningful change (safety, wellbeing, empowerment, awareness, access to justice/support)
- Commitment, Ethics and Integrity: Can demonstrate exceptional dedication, safeguarding, confidentiality, and professionalism integrity.
- Inclusion & Accessibility: Active efforts to reduce barriers and support diverse and marginalised communities.
- Acting as a visible and effective role model for others, and when working with survivors, can demonstrate a survivor centered approach. This means prioritising the survivors voice, providing dignity, and trauma informed care.
- Leadership, Innovation and Collaboration: Leadership or innovation that strengthens prevention, early intervention, and responses to VAWG, including partnerships to improve outcomes.
- Values Alignment: Demonstrates respect, safety, empowerment, and justice.
In selecting the shortlist, the judges will consider:
- Impact, Prevention & Effectiveness: Demonstrates a clear, and positive impact on survivors, or can demonstrate their contribution to preventative work, that reduces harm, risk or future abuse.
- It is useful to include evidence of meaningful change (safety, wellbeing, empowerment, awareness, access to justice/support)
- Commitment, Ethics and Integrity: Can demonstrate exceptional dedication, safeguarding, confidentiality, and professionalism integrity.
- Inclusion & Accessibility: Active efforts to reduce barriers and support diverse and marginalised communities.
- Acting as a visible and effective role model for others, and when working with survivors, can demonstrate a survivor centered approach. This means prioritising the survivors voice, providing dignity, and trauma informed care.
- Leadership, Innovation and Collaboration: Leadership or innovation that strengthens prevention, early intervention, and responses to VAWG, including partnerships to improve outcomes.
- Values Alignment: Demonstrates respect, safety, empowerment, and justice.