A mother in mourning is advocating for a proposed legislation named after her late daughter, who tragically took her own life after enduring prolonged domestic abuse. Angela Dawes is lending her support to the campaign for “Kiena’s Law” in memory of her 23-year-old daughter, who passed away in July 2022 following a sustained pattern of abuse by her ex-partner Ryan Wellings. The initiative, spearheaded by Lancaster Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, has garnered nearly 19,000 signatures.
The petition aims to establish a new legal offense for domestic abuse-related suicides, acknowledging situations where persistent coercive and controlling conduct leads to a victim’s self-inflicted death. Speaking at an event in Blackpool recently, Angela emphasized that the proposed law could potentially prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.
Expressing the importance of having a specific charge for the type of abuse her daughter endured, Angela stated, “While nothing can bring back my child, implementing changes for the future is crucial. My daughter did not wish to end her life; she lived in fear.” She continued, “We have lost a beloved, compassionate young lady who is deeply missed, not only by me but by many others. Let us make changes before more lives are lost needlessly. I may not be able to save other young women personally, but I hope my message can make a difference. Please persevere in your efforts for change. Let us put an end to losing young women in this manner.”
Kiena tragically died on a railway track in Lancashire in July 2022 after being in a two-year relationship with Wellings. During Wellings’ trial at Preston Crown Court, it was revealed that he regularly physically abused Kiena, including slapping her, pulling her hair, and subjecting her to verbal and financial mistreatment.
In a note left before her death, Kiena described herself as “murdered” and accused Wellings of “killing” her. She expressed that he had destroyed all her remaining strength and robbed her of a future. Wellings was acquitted of manslaughter but convicted of coercive and controlling behavior and assault, leading to a sentence of six-and-a-half years in January 2025.
Since the tragic loss of her daughter, Angela has pledged to advocate in Kiena’s honor and for others who have faced similar circumstances. She stressed, “We must bring about change. It should not take the death of young women to be heard, and unfortunately, my daughter had to die for her voice to be heard. There was a lot of victim blaming.”
The campaign is also pushing for coercive and controlling behavior to be encompassed within the dangerous offender framework. Led by Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, the initiative collaborates with Angela and Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse (AAFDA) to raise awareness about domestic abuse-related suicides and advocate for legal amendments.
Frank Mullane MBE, the chief executive of Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse (AAFDA), highlighted that Kiena’s case underscored a significant legal loophole. He emphasized the necessity to acknowledge the severe consequences of coercive and controlling behavior, enhance accountability, and prevent future tragedies. Mullane emphasized the urgency to honor Kiena and all families affected by domestic abuse-related suicides by implementing necessary reforms.
Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw commended Angela for her unwavering dedication to instigate change, stating, “Kiena’s story has resonated with people in Lancashire and beyond.”
He urged continued learning, enhancement of victim protections, and unwavering support for women and girls seeking help. He encouraged individuals to back the petition and uphold the critical dialogue in public and political arenas.
For further details on the petition, visit the link provided. If in need of mental health support, reach out to the Samaritans at 116 123, email at jo@samaritans.org, or visit their website for local branches. For confidential assistance, contact the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline at 0808 2000 247 or visit womensaid.co.uk. If a loved one has been lost to fatal domestic abuse, AAFDA offers specialized support and advocacy services through their website.