Service providers, charities, educators and community partners from the East Midlands came together in Nottingham yesterday (Monday 6th October) to back a powerful regional drive to prevent violence against women and girls (VAWG).
At the heart of the day was a clear and urgent message: prevention must be central to the region’s response to VAWG.
National statistics show one in twelve women and girls experience a VAWG-related crime each year, with these offences accounting for one in five of all crimes recorded by police.
The conference highlighted the wealth of work already happening across the East Midlands to address the root causes of VAWG and drive cultural change – including two presentations from Lincolnshire.
Lincolnshire Police Education Sergeant, Mel Standbrook, showcased Lincolnshire Police’s VAWG education programme that is delivered in schools across the county – highlighting the preventative and education-led mindset to tackling VAWG.
Lincolnshire Rape Crisis CEO, Laura McKane delivered a presentation on how adults and caregivers can ensure that young people feel resilient and knowledgeable when using the internet with the potential to access toxic material.
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sara Munton said: “Ending violence against women and girls remains a key priority here in Lincolnshire. The conference provided an invaluable opportunity to hear from professionals from across our region, share best practice and explore approaches to prevention.
It was great to see so many representatives from Lincolnshire attending the conference; showing their commitment to strengthening their knowledge and actively engaging in conversations to enhance our local service provisions.”
