Force supports White Ribbon Day

Leicestershire Police is supporting a global campaign to challenge men’s attitudes and behaviours towards women.

White Ribbon Day, and the 16 days of action that follow, aims to raise awareness of violent and controlling behaviour and asks people to pledge never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.

Figures published today by The Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that in Leicestershire, some 21,641 domestic abuse related incidents and crimes were recorded in the year ending March 2022, a rise of 1,029 compared to the previous year.

These figures include all reports of domestic abuse made to the force – because of the circumstances of different reports made, not all of these will be criminal offences.

Detective Superintendent Chris Baker, Strategic lead for violence against women and girls, said: “The figures reflect increased reporting of domestic abuse along with improved recording by the force and highlight the level of demand we have.

“We work hard alongside our partners to provide support and advice to all victims. No-one should suffer in silence - domestic abuse is a force priority and we are dedicated to investigating each and every report.

“White Ribbon Day helps us to raise awareness of this very serious issue.

“Domestic abuse and violence is unacceptable irrespective of the circumstances that surround it and will not be tolerated by Leicestershire Police.”

“I would encourage anyone who has or is suffering domestic abuse to come forward and report it either directly to us, Crimestoppers or freeva  - an independent organisation helping individuals be free from violence and abuse.

“Equally, if you think you know someone who is suffering from domestic abuse or violence, we would encourage you to come forward. We will continue to work closely with others to bring offenders to justice and to safeguard those at risk.”

Leicestershire Police is committed to tackling violence against women and girls and works with other partner agencies and the wider public in order to do so.

The force is also among those supporting the You’re Right, That’s Wrong campaign which calls on men to reject unacceptable behaviour towards women.

Aimed at males aged 18-30 years, it challenges unacceptable misogynistic behaviour against women and encourages men to call out negative attitudes and intolerable behaviour among their peers when they witness this type of conduct.

The campaign by the Violence Reduction Network (VRN) was commissioned by Rupert Matthews, Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

He said: “I am proud to be supporting White Ribbon Day again this year. There must be zero tolerance for abuse and violence towards women and girls; safety is of paramount importance.

“Violence towards women has truly devastating consequences for victims and can cause harm long after the event. On White Ribbon Day, we are pledging to double our efforts to prioritise prevention and early intervention through education to treat the causes of violence, listening to and supporting victims and survivors.

“I will work as hard as I can across the criminal justice system locally to improve outcomes for victims, bring more offenders to justice and highlight organisations that are there to help those affected by heinous crimes, such as the specialist services provided for victims of abuse.

“No one should suffer alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or violence at home or on the streets, please seek support.”

Chief Constable Rob Nixon added: “Our officers see first-hand the devastating impact domestic abuse has on individuals and families, day in and day out. That’s why we are committed to preventing this and providing support so that no-one has to continue suffering.”

Last year the force also launched an online tool – StreetSafe – enabling members of the public to flag areas on a map where they don’t feel safe, regardless of whether or not a crime has taken place. Already this has led to changes via the community safety partnership with new lighting and CCTV being introduced.