HERE FOR HER SAFETY

Dorset Police recognised nationally for work tackling violence against women and girls

Dorset Police has been recognised at a national awards event for its work tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG), with two projects honoured at the National Centre for Violence Against Women and Girls and Public Protection (NCVPP) Annual Recognition Event.

The event celebrates outstanding work across policing that improves victim safety, culture and public protection. Dorset Police was selected as a finalist in two categories from more than 75 entries nationwide, with both projects announced as winners.

The Force’s Survivors Network won the award for improving culture and conduct within police forces. The network provides dedicated support for officers and staff affected by sexual harassment, domestic abuse and other forms of violence against women and girls.

Co-designed by survivors, the network ensures dignity, equity and justice are embedded within organisational culture. It offers a confidential, trauma-informed space where staff can be heard and supported, and was recognised by judges as a “transformative force for compassion, fairness and accountability within policing.”

The Pineapple Project, a partnership initiative between Dorset Police and Dorset Council, won the award for making spaces safer. Launched in Weymouth in 2022, the project tackles hidden harms such as peer-on-peer abuse and exploitation by creating a network of safe spaces for girls and young women.

Through the scheme, local businesses and volunteers are trained as Community Guardians, providing safe havens and support when needed. The project now includes more than 60 guardians and has helped foster a culture of active upstanders and shared community responsibility. Judges praised the initiative for its strong emphasis on community empowerment, education and partnership working.

Detective Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police’s operational lead for violence against women and girls, said:

“We are committed as a force to demonstrating that we are here for the safety of women and girls.

“Alongside supporting victims and tackling VAWG-related crime, these projects show our focus on supporting our own staff and working with partners to create spaces in our communities where women and girls can feel safe.”

All winning entries were required to demonstrate innovation, a victim-centred approach, and measurable impact in tackling violence against women and girls.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Helen Millichap, Director of the NCVPP, said:

“It has been an honour to recognise the outstanding work of police officers, staff, volunteers and partners. These inspirational projects highlight the importance of tackling violence against women and girls and protecting the public.”

Jess Phillips, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls, added:

“A woman is killed by a man on average every three days in the UK. The work of the police is vital in tackling abusers and protecting victims from harm.

“These awards recognise officers and staff who refuse to look away from that reality and dedicate their lives to protecting the public.”