Dorset and Wiltshire forces collaborating on police domestic abuse

Domestic abuse by officers working for Dorset Police is to be tackled in a new protocol, with the Force working with colleagues in Wiltshire.

A memorandum of understanding between the two organisations means that for cases in Dorset 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’.

Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police’s lead for Violence Against Woman and Girls (VAWG) as well as domestic abuse lead, said: “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.”