VAWG being a policing priority "really promising" says EVAWG chair
Wiltshire Police is stepping its efforts to keep women safe
The Marchioness of Lansdowne and chair of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) says it's "really promising" that Wiltshire Police is giving higher priority to women's safety.
The Force has made it reducing and preventing violence against women and girls a top operational priority, alongside safer public spaces and improving outcomes for victims.
Lady Lansdowne says it's a hugely encouraging step, revealing that the Chief Constable has told her she's treating it with same level of seriousness as organised crime or terrorism.
Catherine Roper told us on Thursday, after revealing her new policing priorities, that more people reporting domestic abuse offences was part of the reason for making it a key target, while it also reflects what local communities have told her they want police to focus on.
Police are listening and hearing concerns
Lady Lansdowne told us that the role of EVAWG is to be a "critical friend" of the police, challenging them to address issues, as well as providing them with important information.
With more people feeling able to report offences and concerns to the police, thanks to boosted trust and confidence in the service, the Marchioness said it's vital that continues.
"I know how hard it is for women to report these crimes, but be assured that Wiltshire Police are really taking it seriously and they will be there to help you," Fiona said.
Lady Lansdowne added that anyone not feeling confident enough to report an issue to police can share it with the EVAWG group, and they will question the Force as to why that could be the case.
Possible improvements
The Marchioness told us she would like to see an addition brough to how victims are supported.
She told us that a "roadmap" for people going through the justice system could be useful, in a similar way to someone getting a treatment journey from the NHS.
"I feel we should be doing the same for victims of domestic abuse," Fiona said.
It would cover the steps from reporting an offence, through to trial preparation, conviction and support available afterwards to ensure people can successfully rebuild their lives after abuse.
Safety initiatives and allyship
Lady Lansdowne said it is a change of culture that is required, not a change of behaviour from women, as she called on men to be allies to women.
Through Operation Vigilant, police are aiming to prevent harm by identifying predatory behaviour early. But this stretches just beyond a woman raising her own concerns.
Part of the operation is seeing taxi and bus drivers educated on spotting potential signs of a woman in danger.
Fiona said: "They're talking to taxi drivers, if they take a pick up a couple and he is very sober, but she is very drunk, they should ask what is the relationship? Is this woman in danger?"