Dorset Police is lending its full support to Sexual Violence and Sexual Abuse Awareness Week 2025, encouraging victims of all forms of sexual offences to have the confidence to come forward. The week of action runs from Monday 3 February to Sunday 9 February 2025, during which the Force is reinforcing its commitment to treating all victims with respect, providing support, and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice.
Detective Superintendent Neil Wright, the Force lead for Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), stated:
“We are continuously working to create an environment where victims feel confident to report sexual offences, knowing that their report will be taken seriously and that they will be treated with dignity and respect.
We also want to increase confidence that all matters will be thoroughly investigated, and we will do everything in our power to ensure offenders are brought to justice.”
A Commitment to Victims’ Voices
Dorset Police collaborates with a range of partner agencies to support victims and manage investigations effectively. The central focus of this work is ensuring victims feel supported and listened to.
Det Supt Wright highlighted the importance of addressing all forms of sexual offending:
“While the Force remains steadfastly committed to tackling serious sexual offences, we recognise that many perpetrators do not act in isolation. Offenders often have a history of predatory behaviour, including non-contact sexual offences that may be perceived as ‘lower level’ but can have a significant impact on victims.
We are rolling out a training programme to increase awareness among our officers, equipping them with the tools to respond appropriately to these offences and prevent escalation in behaviour.”
Addressing Non-Contact Sexual Offences
Dorset Police is also working with partners to raise awareness of and empower victims to report non-contact sexual offences. These include voyeurism, exposure, up-skirting, spiking, stalking, online offences, and other sexualised comments or behaviour.
“We want to assure our communities that these offences will be taken seriously, and we are fully committed to responding appropriately to reports.”
Supporting Victims
Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, David Sidwick, reaffirmed his commitment to tackling violence against women and girls:
“Tackling violence against women and girls remains a priority. Dorset Police has set a clear strategic focus on improving investigation standards and enhancing the service provided to victims.
Since taking office, I have worked to ensure victims of rape and serious sexual assaults receive the care and support they need. My office has provided funds for vital services, including Victim Support, Dorset’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (Shores), and STARS Dorset. These organisations play a crucial role in providing high-quality care and support to victims at their time of greatest need.”
How to Seek Help
Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence or other sexualised behaviour can report it to Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101. In an emergency or if someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.
For those who do not feel able to report incidents to the police, support is available through the following channels:
- The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC): 0800 970 9954
- National Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 500 2222
- Sexual Trauma And Recovery Service (STARS Dorset): www.starsdorset.org | 0808 500 2222
Dorset Police remains committed to ensuring that all victims of sexual violence and abuse receive the support, respect, and justice they deserve.