We share the latest data gathered from our national Honour-Based Abuse helpline. Our team is dedicated to providing support and guidance to those affected by Honour-Based Abuse and Forced Marriage.
On this page, you can find our quarterly reports and summary reports, which provide valuable insights into the scope and prevalence of HBA in the UK. By sharing this data, we hope to raise awareness of this issue and help others to better understand the challenges faced by victims and survivors.
2023/2024
Karma Nirvana handled 2,962 cases, a 17% increase from the previous year, averaging 795 contacts and 247 cases monthly.
Nearly half (49%) of individuals were referred by professionals, highlighting the importance of professionals recognising Honour Based Abuse (HBA). The helpline supported an equal number of professionals and victims (45% each), with most
professional cases reported by the Police (30%).
The most common barrier victims faced was fear of repercussions (1,930 cases), followed by mistrust of professionals (688), which increased significantly compared to previous years. 23% had insecure immigration status, complicating their ability to escape HBA.
The triggers for the abuse in most cases were either a history of Honour Based Abuse (15%) or simply being female (10%). Being female trigger rose by 42% compared to the previous year (2022-2023).
Many victims faced multiple forms of abuse, with an average of 1.3 abuse categories per case. While HBA was the primary nature of abuse, Domestic Abuse was also prevalent. On average, victims contacted the helpline 3 times, but cases involving children often required significantly more contacts than average.
The majority of cases were in West Yorkshire (27%), with Leeds accounting for 21%. Other key areas included London, the West Midlands, Thames Valley, and Greater Manchester.
Most victims were women (90%), aged 18-45, with 36% between 18-25. Among victims who disclosed their sexuality, 72% were heterosexual, and 28% identified as LGBTQI+.
1 in 4 HBA-related pregnancies were concealed, and the majority of victims were married (43%) or separated (27%).
Perpetrators were often partners, responsible for 26% of cases. Close male family members accounted for 17% of cases and close female family for 14%. Victims frequently reported multiple perpetrators, averaging 1.5 categories per case.
12% of callers spoke English as a second language. Additionally, 1 in 10 had no access to public funds.