Violence Against Woman and Girls

Who is this training for?

All are welcome, but the training will be aimed at frontline professionals, supervisors and operational team managers who work housing, housing related support, education and youth services, adult social care and learning disability teams, police and health who have a basic understanding of key themes around Violence Against Women and Girls.

Definition of Violence Against Women and Girls

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) covers a range of unacceptable and deeply distressing crimes, including rape and other sexual offences, stalking, domestic abuse, ‘honour’-based abuse (including female genital mutilation, forced marriage and ‘honour’ killings), ‘revenge porn’ and ‘upskirting’, as well as many others.

Violence against women and girls national statement of expectations (accessible) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Why are you offering this training?

Sexual offences against women in Somerset is increasing and since the tragic murder of Sarah Everard in March 2021 Somerset services have reported an increase in public concern and reporting of incidents about all levels of sexual assault and harassment. Somerset VRU have received in increase in requests for support on the subject for key partners agencies and this is event is way to being those partners together to understand the key concerns and messages regarding VAWG across the county.

What will I learn?

All participants will understand the key concerns and data regarding Violence Against Women and Girls in Somerset. They will understand what VAWG is and how to recognise it. Learn how professionals can help stop it happening, where to get help and how to create safer spaces. The trainer will explore the impact of rurality for those needing help and also vulnerable victims, including those with learning disabilities. There will be specific discussion on the impact on female victims over 55 years of age.

Participants will also understand how to spot the signs of VAWG in the workplace and learn more about perpetrators who may target working environments that connect with vulnerable customers and communities.

Who is delivering the training?

Somerset VRU will be supported by Avon and Somerset Police, Somerset County Council, Somerset Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Service (SARSAS) and Bournemouth University.