Efforts to combat violence against women and girls continue in Devon and Cornwall
It's after a workshop eight months ago
Significant steps are being taken in Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG), with initiatives aimed at creating long-term impact and cultural change.
Eight months ago, a disruptive ideas workshop, hosted by Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, brought together around 100 frontline professionals passionate about addressing VAWG.
Since the workshop, Hernandez's office has been focused on supporting innovative projects that target victims, perpetrators, potential offenders, and bystanders.
The overarching theme, according to Hernandez, highlights the importance of not placing the burden solely on women and girls to change their behaviour for safety.
One of the initiatives is the Cornwall Male Ally Network, backed by £50,000 in funding matched by Devon & Cornwall Police through money seized from the Tate brothers.
Hernandez said the network aims to foster positive male role models within communities such as sports clubs, music venues, and social spaces.
It seeks to challenge harmful behaviours and create safer environments for women and girls.
Leading figures, including Queen Camilla, have shown interest in the initiative, which Hernandez hopes will expand across Devon and other regions.
Other significant projects include essential stalking training, improving experiences within the criminal justice system, and empowering parents, carers, and children.
The work is supported by an OPCC grant and aims to equip frontline professionals with skills to identify and respond to evidence of stalking.
Additionally, a multimedia Criminal Justice and You resource has been created to enhance the justice experience for victims and witnesses.
The Let’s Talk project is also expanding to include a new website aimed at empowering parents, carers, and children.
Future plans involve producing a short film depicting a woman's perspective navigating her way safely home, expanding the OPCC funded Saturday night bus service, and exploring ways to enhance train safety.
The initiative stresses the importance of collaboration as a united front to eradicate VAWG.
Hernandez remains committed over the next two years to ensuring meaningful change is seen and women and girls can enjoy their lives without fear for their safety.