Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2026

As we mark Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week, we do so at a critical moment for the UK’s response to violence against women and girls (VAWG). Three months have passed since the Government launched its new national strategy, announcing reforms that include strengthened stalking protections and specialist rape and sexual‑offence units in every police force. 

But as this week reminds us, sexual abuse and sexual violence are never acceptable – and while political ambition matters, meaningful change is measured by its impact on the lives of women and girls. For organisations like ours, a target to halve VAWG does not go far enough. More than 150 women are killed every year in England and Wales.  

Nothing short of zero tolerance will do. 

Seeing Real Impact, Every Day 

For more than 30 years, The Magdalene Group has walked alongside women and girls who are too often unseen and those experiencing sexual violence, exploitation and coercion, often compounded by multiple and complex disadvantages. Our work is built on trusted relationships that offer safety, dignity and the chance to rebuild. In every conversation, we bring kindness and a non‑judgemental approach, recognising the courage it takes to seek support. 

Our practice continues to evolve as we drive innovation and embed gender‑ and trauma‑informed approaches across all we do.

We remain tenacious advocates for those navigating fragmented systems, ensuring voices that are frequently overlooked are amplified, respected and centred. And through inclusive, empowering support, we see daily the difference that consistency, compassion and genuine connection can make. 

Three Realities Already Taking Shape

1. Awareness Must Lead to Sustained Action

Awareness Week offers an important moment to reflect, but the momentum cannot end here. Frontline, trauma‑informed services need long‑term investment to deliver meaningful change. Halving VAWG cannot be the aspiration – the only acceptable goal is ending it.

2. Commitments Must Translate into Consistent Experiences

Introducing specialist police units is a step forward, but trust is built through lived experience, not policy documents. Survivors need systems that work together – services that communicate, respond swiftly, and prioritise safety, dignity and choice at every stage. 

3. Prevention Cannot Wait

True change begins long before harm occurs. Prevention, education and cultural challenge must be central pillars of the national strategy. Our Jigsaw programme reflects this belief, equipping professionals and the night-time economy with the knowledge and confidence to create safer spaces. Keeping women and girls safe is a collective responsibility. 

 A Human Reality Behind Every Policy 

Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week is a reminder that behind every announcement is a person – someone whose future depends on the support they receive. Policy shapes the landscape, but it is humanity, consistency and compassion that transform lives. 

The VAWG strategy provides another opportunity to continue the conversation, call out injustice and drive systemic change. Individual actions matter, but long-term progress requires structural reform, cultural shift and unwavering commitment. 

Our Commitment 

As this national conversation continues, The Magdalene Group will: 

• Stand firmly alongside survivors 
• Provide specialist, trauma‑informed, empowering support 
• Build trusted relationships that create safety and stability 
• Advocate tenaciously for long-term investment and systemic change 
• Challenge harmful norms through prevention and education 
• Work towards a society where women and girls live free from violence, exploitation and coercion 

Awareness is vital. 

Action is transformative. 

Together, we can create a future defined by safety, dignity and zero tolerance.