Forces partner to support victims of police-perpetrated domestic abuse

Dorset Police and Wiltshire Police have joined forces to offer an improved service to victims of domestic abuse where the perpetrator is working within policing.

A memorandum of understanding between the two forces means that, in Dorset for cases involving allegations of police perpetrated domestic abuse, regardless of whether the victim is also working in policing, an option may be provided to the victim to have a case officer appointed from Wiltshire Police.

This aims to maximise the confidence in those people reporting that the matter will be handled in a consistent and appropriate manner, independently of the alleged perpetrator’s ‘home force’.

“Domestic abuse remains a top priority for Dorset Police and we want all victims to have the confidence to report matters to us in the knowledge that they will be fully supported and perpetrators will be held to account.

“This new protocol for the handling of domestic abuse incidents when the alleged perpetrator of harm is employed by Dorset Police – whether an officer, police staff or volunteer – will hopefully encourage more victims to come forward.

“Recognising the complexities of abuse and understanding that it is silence that can allow perpetrators to continue causing harm, we are constantly seeking ways to remove barriers, along with our partners, to reporting so that positive action can be taken.”

Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police’s lead for Violence Against Woman and Girls (VAWG) and domestic abuse lead.

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