A Brief History of Women's Rights in the UK The long journey towards equality. Why This Matters The rights and protections we have today were not easily won. They are the result of generations of courageous women and their allies who fought against injustice. Understanding this history helps us appreciate the progress made and recognize the work that still needs to be done. For survivors, knowing the history of legal and social change can be empowering. It shows that systems can change and that your voice is part of a long tradition of fighting for safety and equality. Key Milestones in Women's Rights The Right to Vote (1918 & 1928) The Representation of the People Act 1918 granted the vote to women over 30 who met a property qualification. It wasn't until the Equal Franchise Act of 1928 that women finally achieved the same voting rights as men, allowing all women over 21 to vote. Equal Pay Act (1970) This landmark legislation made it illegal to have different pay scales for men and women for the same work or work of equal value. While the gender pay gap still exists, this was a crucial step towards financial equality. Sex Discrimination Act (1975) This act made it illegal to discriminate against women in work, training, and education. It also established the Equal Opportunities Commission. Marital Rape Criminalised (1991) In a historic ruling, the House of Lords declared that it was a crime for a husband to rape his wife, overturning a centuries-old legal principle that marriage implied consent. Coercive and Controlling Behaviour Offence (2015) This was a huge step forward in recognizing that domestic abuse is not just physical. It made patterns of controlling behaviour, such as isolation, intimidation, and financial abuse, a criminal offence. The First Survivor-Led, Privacy-First Safety Website (2025 - Present) Guardian Angel is launched, becoming the world's first website to combine zero-knowledge encryption, comprehensive safety tools, and a survivor-led vision into a single, live and accessible ecosystem. It represents a new chapter in using technology to empower survivors. Key Milestones in Domestic Violence Legislation The timeline of domestic violence in the UK illustrates a gradual evolution in legal protections and societal attitudes towards abuse. The establishment of refuges and public awareness campaigns has also played a crucial role in changing perceptions and providing necessary support. Act for the Better Prevention and Punishment of Aggravated Assaults (1853) Allowed imprisonment for men who beat their wives for up to six months. Offences Against the Person Act (1861) Made common assault an offense, addressing bodily injury inflicted on another person. Matrimonial Causes Act (1878) Allowed women survivors of violence in marriage to obtain separation orders. First Women's Refuge (1971) The first refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence opens in Chiswick, London, founded by activist Erin Pizzey. Domestic Violence and Matrimonial Proceedings Act (1976) Introduced civil protection orders for victims of domestic violence. 'Reclaim the Night' Marches Begin (1977) Protests against sexual violence and domestic abuse begin, raising public awareness. Housing (Homeless Persons) Act (1997) Recognized women and children at risk of violence as 'homeless', entitling them to state-funded temporary accommodation. Sexual Offences Act (2003) Enacted a comprehensive definition of rape and other sexual offenses. Serious Crime Act (2015) Introduced new offenses related to coercive and controlling behavior. Domestic Abuse Act (2021) Provided a broader definition of domestic abuse, including emotional, coercive, and controlling behavior, and extended protections to children witnessing domestic abuse. The Journey Continues While great strides have been made, the fight for true equality and safety continues. Domestic abuse remains a widespread issue, and the work of organizations and advocates is as vital as ever. Guardian Angel is proud to be a part of this ongoing story, using technology to support the next chapter of empowerment.