Learning lessons from the criminalisation of coercive and controlling behaviour ten years on: The implementation journey in England and Wales

Abstract

This article marks a decade since coercive and controlling behaviour (CCB) became a criminal offence in England and Wales under the Serious Crime Act 2015. Drawing on three research studies conducted between 2016 and 2023 with three different police forces, the authors examine how the offence has been implemented in practice. They explore challenges around defining coercive control, addressing its gendered nature, and equipping criminal justice professionals to recognise patterns of abuse rather than isolated incidents. The article highlights progress made as well as continuing gaps in legal clarity, police training, and consistent application of the law, and compares international approaches including those emerging in Scotland, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and Europe.