Offenders convicted of coercive or controlling behaviour will now face stricter management under multi-agency public protection arrangements (Mappa) in England and Wales. The change, which comes into effect on Monday, places coercive control on par with other serious domestic abuse offences, such as threats to kill and stalking, according to the Ministry of Justice (MoJ).
The BBC reports that for the first time, individuals sentenced to 12 months or more for coercive control, including suspended sentences, will be automatically managed under Mappa. This means police, probation, prison services, and other agencies are now legally required to work together to monitor and manage these offenders more closely, reducing the risk of reoffending and harm to victims.
The MoJ has stated that evidence shows offenders managed under Mappa have a reoffending rate less than half of the national average. By making coercive control a priority offence under this scheme, the government aims to offer greater protection to survivors and ensure perpetrators are held to account.
What Is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is a psychological form of domestic abuse where an offender uses manipulation, intimidation, humiliation, and threats to dominate and control their victim. Over time, these tactics erode the victim’s independence, often leaving them isolated and unable to escape the abuse.
Since its criminalisation in 2015, coercive control has been increasingly recognised as a key factor in many abusive relationships. It is often used alongside other forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, and financial control.
The law change was introduced in the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 by the previous government, addressing a longstanding gap in how offenders were monitored. Prior to this, those convicted of coercive control could only be managed at the discretion of authorities, rather than through mandatory arrangements.
Survivors Welcome Tougher Measures but Say More Is Needed
Domestic abuse survivor Samantha Billingham described coercive control as something that “took away her sense of identity, belonging, and purpose.” Even after leaving her abuser, she struggled to rebuild her life and trust people again.
She welcomed the tougher management of offenders but stressed that more work is needed.
“It’s a step in the right direction, but it’s not enough alone. Survivors must be believed and taken seriously when reporting coercive control. Education is key, and awareness is power—we need it in all schools, colleges, and universities. Our young people must learn the early warning signs.” [via the BBC].
Women’s rights organisations have also welcomed the law change while urging the government to ensure survivors receive adequate protection and support.
Women’s Aid chief executive Farah Nazeer highlighted the devastating impact coercive control has on victims.
“Coercive control is a key tool used by perpetrators of domestic abuse. It isolates survivors and makes them dependent on their abuser. It is essential that specialist domestic abuse services, with expertise in abusive behaviours, are routinely included in the Mappa process if survivors are to be properly protected.”
What the New Law Means for Offenders
The new legal measures apply to offenders sentenced to at least 12 months’ imprisonment, including those given suspended sentences or hospital orders for coercive or controlling behaviour in an intimate or family relationship.
Under Mappa, police and probation services will now have to monitor these offenders alongside those convicted of other serious crimes such as violent offences and sexual abuse.
Stronger Protections for Victims
With coercive control now recognised as a high-risk domestic abuse offence, agencies involved in Mappa will be legally required to share information about any increased risk posed by offenders. This will allow authorities to respond more effectively to potential threats, offering greater security to survivors.
Jess Phillips, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, emphasised the significance of this legal change.
“For the first time, under this change to the law, coercive or controlling behaviour is being placed where it belongs—on a par with serious violent offending. This government will continue working to protect victims, support their journey to justice, and hold perpetrators to account.”
Why This Change Matters
For many survivors, leaving an abusive relationship is only the first step. Without proper monitoring, perpetrators often find new ways to harass, manipulate, or exert control over their victims—even after serving a sentence. The inclusion of coercive control under Mappa aims to close this loophole, preventing offenders from continuing their abuse.
Advocates stress that, while legal reforms are crucial, education, early intervention, and specialist support remain essential in tackling coercive control.
By treating coercive control as seriously as physical violence, the justice system sends a clear message: psychological abuse is real, it is dangerous, and it will not be tolerated.
Featured image: Tougher coercive control laws introduced in England and Wales. Source: Shisu_ka / Adobe Stock.
