Women and girls offered advice at Dartford event

Dartford residents have received advice and guidance as part of an ongoing effort to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Local officers joined representatives from Dartford Borough Council, MIND and other community partners on the High Street, attracting shoppers attending the town’s market on Thursday 16 July.

Engagement

With heavy footfall throughout the day, all those present were kept busy offering advice on how victims can report an offence and how they can get further support. Items including safety straws and panic buttons were also distributed.

Police Sergeant Rob Wilkinson said:

‘We had a lot of interest in our flyers and promotional material. Officers gave many people advice and saw lots of positive engagement. ‘We have had excellent feedback from the public, with several people asking when the next event will held. We even had people travelling to the market specifically to find out more about VAWG and how we’re tackling it. ‘Proactive days like these are vital; often women don’t realise that they are in fact victims and that the treatment they receive is no acceptable. Through events such as these, we can get information out there and ensure there is increased reporting and awareness of VAWG in the community.’