Background
Sarah Everard’s murder occurred on March 3, 2021, and led to significant public outcry and calls for reform in policing and women’s safety. Her tragic death, resulting from the actions of a serving Metropolitan police officer, has become a pivotal moment in discussions surrounding violence against women and girls in the UK.
Events Sequence
Following Sarah Everard’s disappearance, which captured national attention, protests erupted across the country focusing on women’s safety and the police’s response to violence against women. The public outcry was amplified by the revelation that a police officer was responsible for her kidnapping and murder. This incident prompted the Home Secretary to announce a national inquiry into the systematic failures of the police in handling cases of violence against women.
In September 2021, the national inspectorate of policing described violence against women and girls (VAWG) as an epidemic, highlighting the urgent need for reform. This sentiment was echoed in July 2024 when the National Police Chiefs Council and College of Policing published a report reaffirming that VAWG remains a national epidemic. These reports have galvanized further discussions about the safety of women and the accountability of law enforcement.
Current Status
In response to the ongoing issues surrounding VAWG, the Labour Government announced a manifesto commitment in December 2025 to halve instances of violence against women and girls within a decade. Additionally, the Centre for Women’s Justice (CWJ) has been vocal in calling for legislative changes to ensure that all reports of police-perpetrated domestic abuse are formally recorded. They have also proposed legal changes to provide police officer victims with the same rights as non-police victims regarding complaints.
Statistics reveal that approximately 45% of victims of police-perpetrated domestic abuse who contacted CWJ are police officers or staff, indicating a troubling trend within the police force itself. This has raised concerns about the culture within law enforcement agencies and the need for comprehensive reforms.
Significance
The murder of Sarah Everard has had a profound impact on women’s daily lives and decision-making. Many women in the local area have reported altering their routines to feel safer. For instance, Kristina Candy moved to a location closer to a station due to safety concerns, while Mel Condon has become more cautious about accepting lifts from anyone in official uniform.
Harriet Wistrich, a prominent legal figure, remarked, “There is no doubt that the horrific murder of Sarah Everard by a serving police officer has been a galvanising moment in relation to violence against women and girls.” This sentiment reflects the broader societal shift towards demanding accountability and reform in policing practices. As the community continues to grapple with the implications of Everard’s murder, the call for change remains urgent and necessary.
