London Metropolitan University

The Child and Woman Abuse Studies Unit (CWASU) at London Metropolitan University is a world-leading feminist research and teaching centre focused on ending violence against women and children.

Founded in 1987, the Unit has pioneered interdisciplinary, practice-facing research that has reshaped law, policy and frontline services. Its work introduced the influential concept of the continuum of sexual violence, helped to inform the Sexual Offences Act 2003 and the development of sexual assault referral centres.

CWASU combines rigorous empirical studies with practical tools and sustained partnership with frontline practitioners. Landmark research on rape attrition, trafficking for sexual exploitation and the harms produced by mainstream pornography has driven legal reform, informed national guidance and prompted industry and regulatory responses. The Unit has developed training programmes for practitioners, produced resources for agencies and supported evidence-based improvements to investigative and support pathways for survivors.

The Unit’s influence extends internationally. It has advised government departments and international organisations, contributed to multi-country training throughout Europe and supported work linked to the Istanbul Convention. Its MA in Woman and Child Abuse was the first postgraduate level programme in the UK to take an integrated approach to all forms of violence against women and girls, and has produced leaders across government, non-governmental organisations and frontline services.

Across four decades, CWASU has combined concept building, synthesis of evidence and capacity building to transform how societies understand and respond to sexual and domestic violence. Its research has improved survivor support, informed legislation and policy and helped to train the next generation of practitioners and advocates.