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West Midlands Police has become the first force in the UK to introduce virtual reality (VR) technology as part of its training for new recruits, aiming to deepen officers’ understanding of male crimes against women, including stalking, harassment, rape and domestic abuse.
The immersive training, developed in partnership with Birmingham-based social enterprise Calico, places officers in the shoes of female victims using VR headsets. The initiative is designed to foster empathy, prompt critical reflection and improve the way officers approach sensitive investigations.
Delivered at the force’s Tally Ho! training centre, the sessions simulate the experience of a woman navigating Birmingham at night. Through four interactive scenarios—set on foot, in a park, by taxi and on a bus—officers hear the real voices and stories of local women who have experienced gender-based violence. The technology allows users to make decisions throughout the simulation, encouraging officers to consider how they would respond to victims and suspects in real-world situations.
One of the key benefits of the training, according to West Midlands Police, is its ability to shift perspective—particularly for male officers. Among those impacted by the experience is PC Aaron Whittingslow, a new father, who described it as a powerful and eye-opening insight. “For me, it was an insight I’ve never had before—I’ve never experienced the world as a woman does,” he said. “The session has thrown me into that world through the virtual reality goggles, and it’s really made me think about how I’d support victims, how my actions may be perceived, and the kind of world my daughter will grow up in.”
The VR programme is being rolled out to all new recruits joining the force until April 2026, reaching approximately 700 officers in total. It forms part of West Midlands Police’s broader strategy to improve its response to violence against women and girls (VAWG).
Assistant Chief Constable Jen Mattinson, the force’s lead for VAWG, described the training as an important investment in building a more empathetic and informed police service. “I’m proud to see West Midlands Police leading the way by providing training opportunities like this, in our committed approach to tackling violence against women and girls,” she said. “This session is one of many tools that we are investing in to protect the communities we serve. It ensures our newest officers are better equipped to prevent violence and support victims.”
Calico, the training provider behind the VR programme, is known for its work in arts and activism, and its mission to bridge the gap between public services and communities. The company is supported by several regional partners including Birmingham City Council, Solihull Council, and the West Midlands Combined Authority.
Daz Scott, Co-Founder and Director of Calico, said the training was designed to rebuild trust between police and the public by fostering understanding. “One in two women feel unsafe walking alone after dark in a busy public space,” Scott said, referencing data from the Office for National Statistics. “We believe that rebuilding trust starts with empathy. That’s why we created this training: to help officers understand the everyday realities of gendered violence from the perspective of those most affected.”
Scott also praised the police force for its commitment to community-led change. “West Midlands Police have shown a willingness to listen, learn, and lead on this issue. We’re proud to work with a force that recognises the urgent need for change and the power of empathetic training.”
The VR initiative forms part of a wider suite of training provided to officers on how to recognise vulnerability and respond effectively to serious offences. West Midlands Police says it remains committed to strengthening its approach to safeguarding and public trust.
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