Raneem’s Law: A Lifesaving Response to Domestic Abuse

Introduction: Honoring the Legacy of Raneem and Khaola

In a groundbreaking move to address the urgent need for better police responses to domestic abuse, the UK government has introduced Raneem’s Law, named after 22-year-old Raneem Oudeh and her mother, 49-year-old Khaola Saleem, who were tragically murdered by Raneem’s ex-husband in August 2018. This legislation is a direct response to the failures in the police handling of Raneem’s repeated pleas for help before her death. The law represents a significant step toward overhauling how emergency services respond to domestic violence cases, ensuring that victims receive the protection and support they deserve.

The Tragic Case That Sparked Change

Raneem Oudeh and her mother, Khaola Saleem, were senselessly killed by Raneem’s ex-husband, Janbaz Tarin, who was later jailed for life with a minimum sentence of 32 years. In the months leading up to their deaths, Raneem had called 999 more than a dozen times, reporting threats to her life and seeking help. Despite her repeated attempts to alert the authorities, the police failed to log her calls correctly, follow up on her reports, or assess the danger she was in. On the night of her murder, Raneem called 999 four times, but the police did not respond in time to save her. An inquest later found that these failures “materially contributed” to their deaths, highlighting systemic gaps in how domestic abuse cases were handled.

The Launch of Raneem’s Law

To prevent such tragedies in the future, the government has introduced domestic violence specialists in 999 control rooms across five pilot areas: West Midlands, Northumbria, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, and Humberside. These specialists will play a crucial role in ensuring that calls for help are properly assessed, managed, and responded to. Their responsibilities include conducting risk assessments, making referrals to specialist services, and identifying missed opportunities to safeguard victims. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to improving the police response to domestic abuse, with £2.2 million in funding allocated for the next financial year to support the rollout.

A National Rollout to Protect Victims Across England and Wales

The pilot phase of Raneem’s Law will lay the groundwork for a nationwide implementation across all 43 police forces in England and Wales. This ambitious plan reflects the government’s determination to transform how domestic abuse cases are handled, ensuring that every victim receives the urgent help they need. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the urgency of the issue, noting that someone calls the police about domestic abuse every 30 seconds—over 100 people every hour seeking urgent help. She described the overhaul of the police emergency response as a critical step in protecting victims and honoring the legacy of Raneem and Khaola.

A Family’s Campaign for Justice and Change

The introduction of Raneem’s Law has been warmly welcomed by Nour Norris, Raneem’s aunt and Khaola’s sister, who has tirelessly campaigned for improved outcomes for domestic abuse victims. Norris expressed her deep emotional connection to the announcement, stating, “Raneem called for help, and today, the system finally answered.” Her words underscore the significance of this legislation, which she believes will save lives and prevent similar tragedies in the future. The law not only honors the memory of Raneem and Khaola but also serves as a testament to their family’s unwavering advocacy for justice and change.

Conclusion: A New Era in Protecting Victims of Domestic Abuse

Raneem’s Law marks a turning point in the fight against domestic violence, ensuring that victims receive the urgent support and protection they need. By placing domestic abuse specialists in 999 control rooms, the government is taking a proactive approach to addressing the systemic failures that cost Raneem and Khaola their lives. As the law rolls out nationally, it will bring hope to countless victims and their families, offering a lifeline in their darkest moments. This legislation is not just a policy change—it is a promise to victims that their voices will be heard and their safety will be prioritized. Raneem and Khaola’s legacy will live on through this vital work, ensuring that no one else has to suffer the same fate.