Dorset Police urge sexual violence victims to report offences
They've reassured us that you'll be treated with respect and supported
Victims of all forms of sexual offences in Dorset are being urged to report crimes to the police.
The force wants to get the message out to women and girls - that offences like stalking, spiking and up-skirting need to be dealt with.
Dorset Police say they'll do everything in their power to ensure that offenders are brought to justice.
They've also reassured us that victims will be 'treated with respect and supported' throughout.
Detective Superintendent Neil Wright, Force lead for Rape and Serious Sexual Offence (RASSO) and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), said:
“We are continuously working to create an environment where victims feel confident to come forward to us and report sexual offences in the knowledge that their report will be taken seriously and they will be treated with respect and dignity.
“We also want to increase confidence that matters will be thoroughly investigated and we will do everything in our power to ensure that offenders are brought to justice.
“While the Force remains steadfastly committed to tackling serious sexual offences, Dorset Police also recognises that in many cases these crimes are not committed by offenders in isolation. Perpetrators can have a history of predatory behaviour, often including non-contact sexual offences that are typically perceived as ‘lower level’ but we fully recognise can have a significant impact on victims.
“We are working to roll out a training programme to increase awareness and equip our officers with the tools to respond appropriately to these offences with the aim of preventing an escalation in behaviour.
“We are also working with partners to raise awareness and empower victims to report non-contact sexual offences.
“These offences can include voyeurism, exposure, up-skirting, spiking, stalking, online offences and other general sexualised comments and behaviour.
“We want to assure our communities that offences of this nature will be taken seriously and we are absolutely committed to ensuring that we will respond appropriately to these reports.”
Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset David Sidwick said:
“Tackling violence against women and girls remains a priority and the Force has set a clear strategic focus on improving investigation standards, and the service provided to victims. I very much support the work they are doing in creating a safe and supportive environment where victims feel more able to report such crimes.
“Since taking office, I have committed to ensuring victims of rape and serious sexual assaults are provided with the care and support they need. My office has provided funds for vital services including Victim Support, Dorset Sexual Assault Referral Centre known as Shores, and STARS Dorset, which all play an important part in ensuring all victims of these distressing crimes receive high quality care and support when they need it the most.”
Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence or other sexualised behaviour can report it to Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101. If you or anyone else is in danger, always call 999 immediately.
For those who do not feel able to report matters to police, help can be sought by contacting:
• The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) on 0800 970 9954
• National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 500 2222
• Sexual Trauma And Recovery Service on their website or by calling 0808 500 2222