Police launch scheme to boost women's safety

Det Con Natalie Welch said the force was "passionate about building trust in our communities"

Women have been asked to meet female police officers to show them areas in their communities where they feel unsafe.

It is part of the Walk and Talk initiative which has been launched across north Worcestershire after being trialled in Telford, Shropshire, said West Mercia Police.

The walks, which take about 30 minutes, can take place at times women and girls feel most vulnerable about going out.

Det Con Natalie Welch, violence against women and girls (VAWG) officer for the area, is among the police officers taking part.

Officers said they would try to address concerns raised about particular areas

“We are passionate about building trust in our communities and creating safe environments for women and girls," she said.

“The initiative is very exciting, and I am looking forward to meeting the women from my community and being able to play a part in making them feel safer where they live.”

The times they may feel less safe may include early in the morning or late at night.

Girls under 18 can also take part if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The scheme is being introduced in Kidderminster, Stourport, Bromsgrove, Redditch and surrounding areas.

In Telford, the walks led to discussions on local anti-social behaviour hotspots, domestic abuse safety planning and fear of crime in a particular area, said the force.

Insp Richard Field added it was important police understood local concerns and communities got to know their officers.

"From the information they provide we can liaise with key partners to assess these concerns and where possible, fix them," he said.

Similar schemes have also taken place in other force areas.