Crime | Posted on December 11th, 2025 | return to news

Dorset Police launch rape survey

Dorset Police are hoping victims will come forward to take part in the survey in order to improve services to victims.

Victims of rape and sexual assault are being asked to take part in a Police survey.

This is for all victims who have reported rape and serious sexual assaults to Dorset Police and will allow the force to continue to strive to improve services to victims and identify areas of best practice. Those taking part in the survey will also be signposted to support services where they can obtain further help and support.

Detective Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police’s operational lead for Violence Against Women and Girls, said: “It is vital that we continue to put victims at the centre of our work to tackle rape and serious sexual offences, so that more victims feel confident to come forward in the knowledge that they will be supported and we will do everything in our power to bring perpetrators to justice.

“We want to make it clear that this survey is for all of our communities and is for anyone who has reported a rape or serious sexual assault.

“We have chosen to launch it during the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence as evidence shows that women and girls are disproportionately affected by these types of offences.

“This commitment to listening to victims and constantly reviewing ways we can support them and make their voices heard, is all part of our ambition to demonstrate that we are here for the safety of women and girls in Dorset.

“We also continue to work with our partners, including our Independent Sexual Violence Advisor services and The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre, to ensure those who come forward receive the most appropriate support.”

Those wishing to take part in the victims’ survey can do so at https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=xdAVRRi0-kyXQSItpooY17_g_BIBuKxKn_9Ap_u1w-JUOTFOMlNGMjI1Q005OU5JUThGTFU5NzZVTS4u&route=shorturl

If you have been a victim of rape or sexual assault, and you want to report directly to the police, please call 101 and ask to be put in contact with a specially trained police officer. Always dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can contact The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0800 970 9954.