GDASS Newsletter August 2025
A monthly update of news, training and opportunities from GDASS.
Spotlight
Emergency Alert Test – What Survivors and Professionals Need to Know
On Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm, the UK government will send a loud siren alert to all 4G and 5G mobile phones, even if devices are on silent. This is part of a national Emergency Alert system test - no action is needed, and the message will confirm it’s only a test.
Why This Matters
For people experiencing domestic abuse, especially those with hidden or secondary phones, this test could be dangerous. The alert can expose a concealed device, putting the survivor at serious risk if the perpetrator hears it.
Advice for Survivors
- Switch off hidden phones before 3pm on 7 September
- Or opt out of alerts using settings guidance at: gov.uk/alerts/opting-out
- The alert overrides silent mode, so devices must be fully powered off if the risk is high
For Professionals
- Let clients know now – especially those with unknown or hidden devices
- Share opt-out instructions in safety planning sessions
- Brief your teams and prepare and follow up after the test
GDASS Away Day - Closure Notice
Please be advised that GDASS will be closed on Wednesday 6th August to allow our team to take part in an away day. During this time, our phonelines, email inboxes and referral routes will not be monitored.
Normal service will resume on Thursday 7th August, and any enquiries or referrals received during the closure will be responded to as soon as possible once we return.
We thank you for your understanding and continued support.
In an emergency, always call 999. For non-urgent support and resources, please visit www.gdass.org.uk.
Sector News
Digital Safety: Location-Sharing Tools as Double-Edged Sword
Dr. Kathryn Brookfield (University of Nottingham) examines how location-sharing apps, while often used by abusers to control victims, can also be harnessed for safety when used wisely by survivors and advocates. She emphasises that informed consent and trusted networks are essential before enabling location access. Read more here.
Domestic Abuse Commissioner: Government Failing on Lessons from DHRs
A new report finds that only 25% of Domestic Homicide Review (DHR) recommendations from 2019–21 were fully acted on. Commissioner Nicole Jacobs warns that poor implementation undermines future preventative efforts and calls for stronger oversight and funding for support services. Read more here.
Survivors Being Criminalised for Coercive Control
A new report by the Centre for Women’s Justice found that survivors in England are being prosecuted for offences instigated or coerced by their abusive partners. Examples include women prosecuted for fraud over a partner’s identity theft and a police officer compelled to misuse systems. The CWJ recommends legal protections and procedural reform for survivors. Read more here.
Gloucestershire: Domestic Abuse Case Numbers Highlight Need for Awareness
Over 10,000 domestic abuse incidents were recorded by Gloucestershire Police in the past year, alongside more than 5,000 reports of stalking and harassment. The force warns that abuse remains a "hidden harm", with victims often experiencing multiple incidents before seeking help. These figures highlight the ongoing need for early intervention and support services to reach those at risk before escalation occurs. Read more.
Research and Resources
New Crime Survey Measure Shows Prevalence Slightly Falling
ONS has published a combined measure of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and stalking: 10.6% of adults—around 5.1 million people—experienced at least one of these crimes in the year to March 2025. While still distressingly high, this marks a slight decline from 11.3% in the previous year. Read more here.
Adult-Child to Parent Abuse (ACPA) Research and Toolkit
The London Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) has released a comprehensive toolkit addressing Adult-Child to Parent Abuse (ACPA). Key findings include the underrecognition of ACPA within existing systems, the complex emotional dynamics distinguishing it from other forms of domestic abuse, and significant intersections with mental health crises. The toolkit offers a family needs and risks assessment tool, a good practice guide, and strategic recommendations to improve identification, response, and support for families affected by ACPA. Access the toolkit here.