Learning legacies: better understanding the dynamics of domestic abuse suicidality through domestic homicide reviews

Abstract

This article draws on analysis of 32 Domestic Homicide Reviews (DHRs) undertaken in England and Wales in cases where the deceased took their life in the context of domestic abuse, as well as a series of 36 interviews and one focus group discussion, conducted by the authors with key stakeholders in the DHR process, including commissioners, Chairs, panel members, and bereaved families. Discussion reflects on the clear, but also complicated, causal relationship between domestic abuse and suicidality that is demonstrated through this data, with close analysis of the experiences reflected within the DHRs providing a particularly rich and textured account of victims’ navigation of complex vulnerabilities, often in plain sight of statutory and third sector services. Highlighting lessons that can, and should, be learned from these human legacies, in the closing sections of the article, we underscore the importance of recognising the compounding effects of intersecting vulnerabilities in a way that resists siloed or victim-blaming responses, while not diminishing the role and responsibility of the perpetrator(s) of abuse. We also emphasise the need for more holistic, trauma-informed, and sustainably funded support, that can connect expertise around domestic abuse more effectively and consistently with expertise on suicide prevention.