Portsmouth mother whose daughter died by suicide calls for stronger sentencings of domestic abusers
Sharon Holland's daughter died at the age of 23
A Portsmouth mother whose daughter died by suicide following domestic abuse is calling for stronger sentencings for perpetrators.
It comes after a roll-out of early release schemes nationally.
Sharon Holland's daughter Chloe died at age 23.
She said: "Tougher sentencings would teach the perpetrators they're not going to get away with it.
"In other countries, just for coercive control, it's either 14 years, 12 years or seven years.
"In this country, it's only five.
"In my eyes, coercive control is a form of torture and it should be treated like that.
"It just feels like it's not being taken seriously enough for the psychological impact on a victim, like with my daughter, it was horrific."
It comes as the second wave of early release from prison takes place.
Sharon Holland is telling us her thoughts after her daughter's perpetrator was nearly released under the scheme.
She said: "They're going to be absolutely terrified because the sentencing for coercive control is only five years and they don't even get that.
"You already feel let down with that, and then if they get a percentage off for an early plea, to then have early release?
"They're going to feel that there isn't any justice.
"If there's women with children, they might have to uproot their families and leave the area, leave their friends and family behind.
"It's just terrifying, it's really frightening."
If you, or someone you know is suffering with their mental health, or experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can speak to your GP. If someone's life is in danger - call 999 immediately.
You can also find help and advice from these services:
Hub of Hope - https://hubofhope.co.uk
Samaritans – Call 116123 - https://www.samaritans.org
Mind - 0300 123 3393 - https://www.mind.org.uk
If you’re affected by issues raised in this article, there is help available from your local domestic abuse service at www.womensaid.org.uk.
· The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0808 2000 247 (run by Refuge)
· The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors is 0808 801 0327 (run by Respect)
· The National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0800 999 5428 (run by Galop)
If you are in immediate danger always call 999.