Tackling Violence against Women and Girls

As public attention has focused on violence against women and girls in recent weeks, Hertfordshire Constabulary and partner agencies have been redoubling efforts to tackle these issues.

While instances of stranger attacks remain relatively rare in the county, there is determination to ensure that everyone feels safe in our streets and public places.

The constabulary, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire and Hertfordshire County Council have already been working to fully understand communities’ concerns following the murder of Sarah Everard in London earlier this year.

This has included a personal safety survey in June which was shared through OWL and attracted more than 13,000 public responses. The results are now being carefully considered by police and partners.

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire has also recently secured more than £500,000 for safety measures including improving lighting in underpasses in Hatfield.

The national pilot StreetSafe scheme also provides a means by which the public can report locations in their neighbourhoods where they feel unsafe. Reports can be made anonymously at police.uk/streetsafe.

The constabulary also continues to work with partners to prioritise the protection of the most vulnerable in society, including those experiencing domestic and other kinds of abuse.

If you have been affected by any of these issues, you can access help and support through a number of support services in Hertfordshire. The support given is free and can be accessed independently of reporting to police.