Police and football club tackle violence against women

Dorset Police has strengthened its partnership with AFC Bournemouth to tackle issues around violence against women and girls (VAWG).

The force recently visited the club to give a training input on VAWG related issues to its concourse staff.

The aim of the day was to provide information and advice on how to spot the signs of offences and support victims, as well as encouraging reporting to police.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, David Sidwick said: "It is not up to women to continually find ways to 'stay safe' we need to push for societal change and tackle deep issues."

The partnership work has seen the introduction of two female operational football officers who regularly attend AFC Bournemouth games.

Mr Sidwick said: "I commend the work of the Force and AFC Bournemouth in collaborating to tackle violence against women and girls on a very real level.

"Training matchday staff so they know the signs to look out for and adding the operational football officers, will make a tangible difference to the safety and security of all fans."

"Getting to the root of this behaviour is the only way we can deal with the issue of violence against women and girls for the sake of our future generations," he added.

Detective Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police lead for VAWG, said: We have been delighted to work with AFC Bournemouth to raise these issues and increase awareness amongst fans of all genders attending their fixtures."

AFC Bournemouth head of safeguarding Meredith Hack said: "We're very grateful to have such a strong partnership with Dorset Police, and are proud of what we have achieved together in discussing some very important topics.

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