Background
Sarah Everard’s disappearance and murder occurred on March 3, 2021, in Clapham, London. The incident shocked the nation and raised serious concerns about women’s safety and the role of police in addressing violence against women.
Events Sequence
Sarah Everard was kidnapped and murdered by a serving Metropolitan police officer. Her disappearance led to widespread protests, with many women expressing their fears and frustrations regarding safety in public spaces and the police response to violence against women. The protests highlighted a growing demand for accountability and reform within the police force.
In the aftermath of Everard’s murder, the Home Secretary announced a national inquiry into the systematic failures in policing that contributed to this tragedy. This inquiry aimed to address the broader issues of violence against women and girls (VAWG) and the systemic problems within law enforcement agencies.
In September 2021, the national inspectorate of policing published a report describing VAWG as an epidemic, emphasizing the urgent need for change. Following this, the National Police Chiefs Council and College of Policing released a report in July 2024, reiterating that VAWG remains a national epidemic that requires immediate attention and action.
Current Status
As a response to the ongoing issues surrounding VAWG, the Labour Government announced a manifesto commitment in December 2025 to halve incidents of violence against women and girls within a decade. This commitment reflects the government’s recognition of the need for significant reforms and proactive measures to protect women.
Additionally, the Centre for Women’s Justice (CWJ) has reported that approximately 45% of victims of police-perpetrated domestic abuse who contacted them are police officers or staff. CWJ has called for legislative changes to ensure all reports of police-perpetrated domestic abuse are formally recorded and investigated, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability within the police force.
Significance
The case of Sarah Everard has become a galvanizing moment in the fight against violence towards women. Activists and advocates have pointed out that the horrific nature of her murder has prompted a national conversation about the safety of women and the trust placed in law enforcement. As Harriet Wistrich stated, “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.”
Women in the area have reported changing their daily decision-making to feel safer since Everard’s murder. For instance, Kristina Candy moved to a location closer to a station due to safety concerns, and Mel Condon has become more cautious about accepting lifts from individuals in official uniforms. These changes reflect the profound impact of Everard’s case on the lives of women and the ongoing need for societal change to ensure their safety.
As the inquiry continues and reforms are proposed, the legacy of Sarah Everard’s tragic story remains a critical focal point in the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and safety in the UK.
