The UK has seen a disturbing rise in acid attacks, with 498 recorded in 2024, a 10 percent increase from the previous year. Women and girls represent one-third of the victims, with research indicating that these attacks cost an average of £63,000 each in medical and psychological support. The northeastern region, particularly Northumbria, has alarming statistics despite serving a small population. Addressing this issue requires tackling socio-economic factors and imposing stricter regulations on the sale of corrosive substances.
Data from police forces show 498 physical attacks involving corrosives were recorded in 2024, a 10 per cent increase from the 454 incidents reported in 2023.
On average, a single attack can cost £63,000 in medical and psychological support, meaning that the overall average cost of these physical attacks in 2024 would be in the regions of £31m.
74 victims out of 224 physical attacks, where gender data was provided, were female. In addition, women made up 62 per cent of victims when there had been a threat of an acid attack.
It's vital we address how easily offenders are able to access corrosive substances in the first place. We urgently need stricter controls on sales, especially from online retailers.
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