Survivors empowered to speak out about male violence
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We are empowering survivors of domestic abuse, rape and assault to speak out and share their stories, in a bid to highlight the harsh reality many women face at the hands of male violence.
The force’s MVAWG Voices, a series of real life blogs, has been created to raise awareness of male violence against women and girls (MVAWG), and the impact these issues have on people’s lives.
Crimes such as rape and sexual offences, stalking and domestic abuse disproportionally affect women, with police encouraging people to come forward and talk about these issue in order to tackle the problem.
The first blog in the series is from a police officer who was physically and mentally abused by her ex-partner. Opening up about her experience, she highlights the importance of people around her asking questions, and the ongoing support she received.
She said: “By sharing my story, I hope I can give at least one person the confidence to come forward. The journey isn’t easy, but you will be believed and there is support available.”
In May, we released a video where survivors shared their experiences ranging from harassment, sexual assault and domestic abuse, as well as highlighting everyday issues such as cat calling and misogyny.
The force will continue to use real stories and experiences to encourage people to open up about the challenges they face, and to also encourage everyone to call out unacceptable behaviour.
As well as giving victims a voice, the force has a significant focus on holding perpetrators accountable and making the community safer for women.
Project Firefly was launched in May to ensure women no longer face unacceptable behaviour in places like pubs and clubs. The project includes specialist training for officers as well as licensed premises, an increased police presence and a social media campaign aimed at challenging perpetrators of male violence and abuse.
As part of this work, last week training was delivered in Bedford through the Pub Watch Scheme about spotting suspicious behaviour and how to support someone in need.
Detective Chief Superintendent Dee Perkins, the force’s lead for male violence against women and girls, said: “We are working to create a safer environment for women and girls across Bedfordshire, and as part of that work we are creating a safe space for women’s voices to be heard.
“As these survivors bravely speak out, we must all do more to challenge these attitudes and behaviour, and we are working on a number of different project across the county to eradicate them.
“Bedfordshire Police has a significant focus on targeting perpetrators, and we will be looking to hold people engaging in this abhorrent behaviour accountable and take police action where we can.
“We are working with a number of partners, and are committed to earning the public’s trust that we understand these issues and are committed to getting our response right.”
Although this campaign focuses on male violence against women and girls, Bedfordshire Police remains committed to tackling all forms of abuse, supporting victims of any gender, and tackling both male and female offenders.
The force is keen to support other survivors who feel comfortable and confident enough to come forward and tell their story. All of these stories will be handled with the utmost sensitivity, and can be anonymised. Please contact the corporate communications team to discuss further.
Reports can be made to police on 101, or via our online reporting tool. Always call 999 in an emergency.
You can also contact Victim Support Services for free and confidential support, whether the crime has been reported or not. The experienced staff and volunteers know what emotions and challenges victims may be going through. They are specially trained to listen and give help and advice. They also work with a range of specialist organisations and community support groups and can make referrals to help victims on their journey.
Victim care co-ordinators will also discuss the benefits of restorative justice, which gives victims the opportunity to tell the offender about the real impact the crime they committed has had on them.
You can also contact Bedfordshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) the Emerald Centre by visiting the website, emailing [email protected] or calling 01234 897052. They offer free support and practical help to anyone in Bedfordshire and Luton who has experienced sexual violence and/or sexual abuse.