BROMSGROVE MP Sajid Javid has said he is delighted that the Domestic Abuse Bill is making progress in Parliament.

Last Wednesday, the landmark bill, spearheaded by Mr Javid when he was Home Secretary, made new ground in Parliament, highlighting its importance to the government’s domestic agenda.

As Home Secretary, Mr Javid oversaw the writing and publishing of the draft bill in January 2019, as well as its first reading in July earlier this year.

The bill will introduce the first ever statutory definition of domestic abuse, recognising that abuse can take many different forms – including psychological, physical, sexual, economic and emotional.

The discussion in Parliament has concerned the intensely personal nature of the crime.

A point of agreement across the chamber is that many people don’t immediately recognize what domestic abuse is, or that they disregard the tell-tale signs of a toxic relationship.

In January, then Home Secretary Sajid Javid, announced that government support for the survivors of domestic abuse would also move beyond parliamentary legislation.

The measures put forward included: additional funding and support for male victims; improved support for victims in the family court; and additional funding and training to support LGBT and disabled victims.

The Domestic Abuse Bill demonstrates the government’s commitment to focusing on the domestic priorities that affect people every day – alongside tackling crime, improving schools and boosting our NHS.

Mr Javid said: "Domestic abuse destroys lives and tears families apart, but all too often it is hidden behind closed doors. The fantastic work carried out by the Home Office and fellow parliamentarians is shining a light on a part of our society, too often swept under the carpet.

“We are indebted to those who have had the courage to share their stories and we are driven in our work by those who continue to suffer."

He added: "If you feel as though you’re in an abusive, toxic relationship, I urge you to come forward and tell someone.

“Through personal experience, family or friends, domestic abuse can affect all of us. It is everyone’s responsibility to look out for one another and call out abusive behaviour when we see it.

“This landmark bill is an opportunity to help those who suffer this deeply harmful crime and support those who bring the perpetrators to justice.”