Manchester researchers recognised for growing impact on UK policy and parliamentary engagement

Dr Mohammad “Maz” Mazher Idriss and Professor Michelle McManus have both provided oral evidence to the House of Lords as part of the ongoing post-legislative scrutiny of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, an inquiry examining how effectively the landmark legislation is being implemented in practice.

Dr Idriss, a specialist in honour-based abuse and forced marriage, appeared before the Lords Special Inquiry earlier this month. Drawing on his extensive research, he provided expert insights into under-recognised forms of abuse, particularly focusing on male victims of honour-based violence and forced marriage. His contribution brought attention to gaps in existing policy frameworks, reinforcing the need for a more inclusive understanding of victim experiences.

The engagement forms part of the Lords’ wider efforts to assess the real-world impact of the Act, with Dr Idriss’s evidence contributing to discussions on how policy can better respond to complex and often hidden forms of domestic abuse. His growing policy influence is further underscored by an upcoming invitation to present his research before the European Commission in October 2026, where he will address issues including honour-based abuse and its classification within serious organised crime.

Alongside this, Professor Michelle McManus, Professor of Safeguarding and Violence Prevention and Director of the Institute for Children’s Futures at Manchester Metropolitan University, has also played a key role in informing the inquiry. Reflecting on her experience, Professor McManus described it as “an absolute privilege” to provide oral evidence to the committee, particularly in relation to policing and the implementation of the Act.

Her contribution focused on critical safeguarding issues, including the recognition of children as victims of domestic abuse, a provision introduced by the Act but still presenting challenges in practice. Evidence shared during the session highlighted ongoing systemic issues in policing, including inconsistent data collection, difficulties in identifying coercive control, and a lack of clear safeguarding thresholds for children affected by domestic abuse.

The session also raised concerns about postcode disparities in police responses, as well as the disproportionate impact of domestic abuse on racially minoritised and migrant communities, pointing to persistent challenges in trust, identification and access to support.

Together, the contributions of Dr Idriss and Professor McManus demonstrate the vital role of academic research in shaping policy at the highest levels. Their work reflects a broader commitment within Manchester Metropolitan University to bridging the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based insights inform legislative development and public sector decision-making.