Rachel Horman-Brown, a solicitor specializing in domestic abuse cases, speaks to Debbie about the ongoing challenges in the fight against domestic abuse and stalking in the UK. Together they highlight the inefficiencies and failures within current systems, including the police and CPS, and advocate for radical changes such as the implementation of technological solutions like tagging perpetrators. Both Debbie and Rachel emphasize the importance of real, actionable change over mere legislative additions and stress the need for societal shifts in attitudes towards domestic abuse.

Learn more about Rachel at https://www.rachelhorman.co.uk

Debbie sits down with Professor Michael Flood from the Queensland University of Technology to discuss his extensive experience in research, advocacy, and education, focusing on men's violence against women and broader issues of men and masculinities. The conversation delves into the similarities between Australia and the UK in terms of domestic violence prevalence and response, the role of societal and cultural attitudes, and the importance of primary prevention and education. Michael and Debbie discuss challenges within the legal and support systems and emphasize the need for grassroots advocacy and comprehensive victim support.

In this in-depth conversation, Jared Whitaker, an author and campaigner, discusses his personal experiences with domestic abuse, false allegations, and the systemic failures in supporting victims, particularly men. The discussion highlights the societal stigma around abuse, the ineffectiveness of the Domestic Abuse Bill, and the many challenges faced in the legal system, including biased judgments and the shocking lack of accountability. Jared emphasizes the need for better education, joined-up services, and evidence-based approaches.

Find Jared's books at https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B0D1LFZLD3/allbooks

Debbie interviews Nataly, who shares her harrowing experiences with the Hague Convention on International Parental Child Abduction and the broader issues within family court systems. Nataly describes how her children were abducted and the ensuing legal battles across multiple countries. The interview delves deep into the complications and inadequacies of the Hague Convention, the family courts, and the criminal justice system, highlighting the mistreatment of children as commodities, the lack of proper policing and social care, and the systemic failures in addressing domestic abuse and safeguarding issues. Both Debbie and Nataly call for urgent reforms, better training for professionals, and more accountability within the existing systems to protect vulnerable families.

Follow Nataly on X at https://x.com/natalyanderson

In this episode, Dr. Adrienne Barnett, a reader in law at Brunel University, shares her extensive experience and research into the family court system. From her early career as a family law barrister to her in-depth studies on domestic abuse and the secrecy of family courts, Dr. Barnett discusses the systemic failures and cultural barriers that hamper justice. She delves into the impact of father's rights movements, the controversial issue of parental alienation, and the critical need for transparency and reform in family courts. Dr. Barnett also sheds light on the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction, detailing how it affects primary carers fleeing domestic abuse. Join this episode to understand the intricate issues within family courts and the ongoing efforts towards systemic change and better protection for victims of domestic abuse and their children.

In this episode, Jade https://x.com/jadewelshy opens up about the harrowing abuse she endured, both from her ex-partner and the systemic failures of legal and social services meant to protect her. Jade shares how professionals failed to recognize and act on clear signs of abuse, exacerbating her trauma. As she recounts her story, Jade emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and systemic change to prevent further suffering for victims. This is the first part of a multi-episode series that sheds light on the complexities and persistence of abuse, and the devastating impact of a broken system.

In this episode, Debbie speaks to Jean Flower, a professional McKenzie friend, to discuss the intricate dynamics of family courts, domestic abuse, and the complexities faced by victims navigating the legal system. Jean shares her unique blend of expertise in financial planning, coaching, and divorce support to help clients through court proceedings. She underscores the issues within the family court system, the challenges of domestic abuse victims, and the often overlooked emotional and psychological abuse. The episode also delves into the inadequacies of legal aid, the necessity of better training for judges, and the systemic problems that persist in family courts.

In this emotionally powerful episode, Sam Billingham, founder of Survivors of Domestic Abuse (SODA) and Stronger Beginnings, joins Debbie to share her journey and discuss the pressing issue of coercive control and domestic abuse. Sam highlights the systemic failures in supporting victims, the challenges with professional understanding, and the dire need for greater awareness and collaboration. This conversation underscores the harsh realities faced by survivors and the urgent need for change in governmental and societal responses to domestic abuse.