Work underway on Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy for North Yorkshire and York

Commissioner Zoë has the issue as one of her main priorities and is currently working with survivors, victims and partner organisations across North Yorkshire and York to develop the plan which it is hoped will be launched in the spring.

It will incorporate North Yorkshire Police’s operational strategy on Violence Against Women and Girls, released today (1 March 2022) following the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s new framework in December, and ensure there is an ambitious yet achievable series of actions that build on the innovative work already done but recognises there is much more to do.

Commissioner Zoë said:

“I welcome the publication of this strategy today setting out how North Yorkshire Police intend to help women and girls to feel safe and be safe in our county. I recognise the work that has already been done to achieve that but accept there is still much to do.

“This new operational strategy from North Yorkshire Police is an important part of that, but I am determined we make the conversation much broader and all-encompassing and that is what is currently happening. My team and I are already listening to victims with lived experience of these crimes and are working with organisations who support them, to assemble our joint strategy.

“In the spring, I will be putting in place an overarching strategy which combines compassion and positive outcomes for victims, with a commitment to prevent harm before it happens.”

North Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Lisa Winward said:

“We appreciate the support that the Commissioner is providing to help us to tackle this critical area and we look forward to working with her to support the development of her overall Violence Against Women and Girls strategy for North Yorkshire and the City of York.”

Help is available now for anyone who needs it.

IDAS is the largest specialist charity in Yorkshire which provides free, confidential support services to anyone in York or North Yorkshire experiencing or affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence. Visit www.idas.org.uk for more information or call 03000 110 110.