KATIE White, the Labour MP for Leeds North West, has voiced her strong support for a powerful campaign led by the family of Bethany Rae Fields, a young woman tragically murdered by her ex-partner in 2019.

Bethany's mother, Pauline Jones, who lives in the Leeds North West constituency, has set up a campaign in her daughter's memory and said the authorities should act quicker to protect abused women who are asking for help.

Bethany’s death highlighted serious failings in the support available to victims of domestic abuse, and her family is determined to create lasting change in her name.

Bethany, described as a bright and talented young woman, sought help from the police multiple times before her murder. Tragically, appropriate action was not taken quickly enough to protect her. Now, her mother, Pauline, is leading a campaign for reform, calling for Bethany’s initials - BRF, standing for Believe, React, Fast - to become a guiding principle for authorities in responding to stalking and abuse cases.

In a new video to support the campaign, Katie White said: “Bethany’s murder should never have happened. Victims of domestic abuse deserve to know they will have police support when they seek help. This support was not there for Bethany, and we must do more to ensure those who bravely come forward are met with the seriousness and urgency they deserve.”

Katie has raised Bethany’s case during Prime Minister’s Questions and met with the Minister for Safeguarding, Jess Phillips, alongside Pauline to discuss the Government’s plans to tackle violence against women and girls. Katie has backed the Government’s new measures to improve victim support, including embedding domestic abuse experts in 999 control rooms.

Katie said: “Pauline has faced unimaginable pain, but her courage is making a difference. Together, we can ensure Bethany’s story leads to lasting change and saves others from the heartbreak her family has endured,”

The campaign comes as alarming statistics highlight the urgency of reform. Around one in four women have experienced domestic abuse since the age of 16, with police recording a domestic abuse offence every 40 seconds. Pauline’s campaign aims to ensure that victims are believed and protected swiftly, potentially saving lives.

Katie added: “Let’s remember Bethany Rae Fields and let’s act - Believe, React, Fast.”