Cherryl Henry-Leach Appointed to Ministry of Justice’s Women’s Justice Partnership Delivery Group to Tackle VAWG and Reform Criminal Justice System

Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse’s CEO brings decades of expertise to UK Government initiative aimed at halving violence against women and girls by 2030

We can confirm that Cherryl Henry-Leach, CEO of Standing Together, has been appointed to the UK Government’s Women’s Justice Partnership Delivery Group (PDG), a key initiative led by the Ministry of Justice.  

Cherryl’s appointment as the specialist in Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), particularly women as victims and offenders, reflects her decades of experience in domestic abuse prevention, trauma-informed practice, and systemic reform. Her role will focus on ensuring that the criminal justice system recognises and responds to the complex needs of women who have experienced abuse, many of whom are criminalised as a result of their victimisation.  

This appointment presents an opportunity for STADA to further shape national and local responses to domestic abuse, ensuring survivor voices are at the heart of policy and practice.  

The PDG’s work supports the UK Government’s goal to halve violence against women and girls by 2030. Key focus areas include early intervention, community-based solutions, support for pregnant women and mothers, and improving outcomes for young women in the criminal justice system.

Cherryl joins six other external experts on the PDG, each bringing specialist knowledge in areas such as women’s health, community services, and accommodation. Together, they will work to ensure that the criminal justice system is trauma-informed, survivor-centred, and responsive to the needs of all women. STADA congratulates the panel of experts on their appointments.  

Cherryl Henry-Leach said:
“I am deeply honoured to join the Women’s Justice Partnership Delivery Group and contribute to this vital work. Too often, women in the criminal justice system are failed by a system, created by men, that does not recognise the trauma and abuse they have endured. This is a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change, ensuring that survivors are at the forefront of justice reform. I am committed to working collaboratively with the PDG, the Women’s Justice Board, and all stakeholders to create a system that truly supports women and reduces harm.  

I also extend heartfelt thanks to the Ministry of Justice, WJB, and the selection panel for this appointment. It is an honour to support the national commitment to address the systemic issues that disproportionately affect women in the criminal justice system through my direct contribution to the PDG’s mission to create a fairer, more equitable justice system. Together, we can create a justice system that truly supports women and reduces harm.”  

As Cherryl takes on this new role, she remains steadfast in her commitment to Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse’s mission: to end domestic abuse through coordinated, community-based solutions. Her work with the PDG will further amplify the voices of survivors and ensure that their experiences inform the future of women’s justice in the UK.