Exclusive: Killamarsh murder victim's mum backs government plans to tackle domestic abuse
Angie Smith's pregnant daughter Terri Harris was killed along with three children in 2021
The mum of a woman who was killed by her abusive partner three years ago is backing fresh government plans to 'crack down' on violence against women + girls in South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire.
Terri Harris was killed along with her two children John & Lacey, & their friend Connie Gent by Damien Bendall in Killamarsh back in 2021.
Now, the Home Secretary has confirmed plans for domestic abuse specialists to be introduced into 999 control rooms.
It's with the aim of making sure calls for help are treated urgently & so the police response recognises the danger callers may be facing.
Angela Smith's pregnant daughter Terri was killed by her abusive partner 3 years ago - along with her 2 grandchildren.
She tells us exclusively that domestic abuse has needed 'greater recognition' for a long time:
"Every three days, three women get killed.
"The government has to start taking domestic abuse seriously.
"Let's hope this new government do start to take this seriously - this is a good start.
"At last, we're hearing about plans to tackle domestic abuse from the government.
"Domestic abuse is a big issue, so to hear it being talked about by the government is amazing.
Damien Bendall's currently serving a whole-life order in prison for the 4 murders.