Amendments to the Domestic Abuse Act now say that withholding elements of the religious divorce can be a form of domestic abuse.

The practical implications are yet to be seen, and it appears the regulation is still under consideration to see what impact any reforms may have. Obtaining a ‘get’ from the husband is the only way to enable a Jewish woman to remarry or have children with a new partner, without facing the prospect of hostility or shame within the religious community.

These reforms will mean that husbands must give to the ‘get’ or face potential allegations of domestic abuse. The position being raised by members of the Jewish faith is that a ‘get’ must be given freely and without duress, which would not be possible should sanctions be attached. Lawmakers and religious communities continue to debate the issues and seek some form of compatibility.

Watch this space.