The Tragic Abduction
On March 3, 2021, Sarah Everard, a 33-year-old marketing executive, was kidnapped, raped, and murdered, a crime that shocked the nation and sparked widespread protests. Her abduction by Wayne Couzens, an off-duty Metropolitan police constable, raised serious questions about the safety of women and the integrity of the police force. Couzens was later convicted of her murder, a case that became a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding violence against women and girls.
The Everard Family’s Grief
Susan Everard, Sarah’s mother, has publicly described her daughter as thoughtful, dependable, and highly principled. The Everard family, consisting of four members, continues to navigate their future together while grappling with the profound loss of Sarah. Their dignity in the face of such unbearable grief has resonated with many, highlighting the personal toll of violence against women.
Systemic Issues in Policing
Five years after Sarah’s murder, significant issues within the police force remain unresolved. Reports indicate that approximately 25% of police forces in England and Wales had not implemented basic policies for investigating sexual offences as of last year. This lack of action has contributed to a climate where many women still do not trust the police, raising concerns about their safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement in addressing violence against women.
Public Response and Inquiry
The murder of Sarah Everard has been described as a galvanizing moment in relation to violence against women and girls. Following her death, the Home Secretary announced a national inquiry into the systematic failures that allowed Couzens to remain in policing. The national inspectorate of policing characterized violence against women and girls as an epidemic in September 2021, underscoring the urgent need for reform.
Legislative Changes and Commitments
In December 2025, the Labour Government announced a commitment to halve violence against women and girls within a decade. Organizations like CWJ have called for legislative changes to tackle systemic problems within policing, emphasizing the need for accountability and reform. The statistics are alarming, with approximately 45% of victims of police-perpetrated domestic abuse who contacted CWJ being police officers or staff themselves.
Voices for Change
Farah Nazeer has noted that while some action has been taken to improve the police response to violence against women and girls, significantly more must be done as misogyny remains rooted and systemic. Sir Mark Rowley, a prominent figure in the police force, acknowledged the progress made but emphasized that the public should expect more from law enforcement. These voices reflect a growing demand for accountability and change within the police system.
Continuing the Conversation
Sarah Everard’s murder has not only highlighted the dangers women face but has also ignited a national conversation about the need for systemic change in policing and societal attitudes towards women. As the fifth anniversary of her death approaches, the impact of her case continues to resonate, reminding us of the ongoing struggle for safety and justice for women everywhere.
