Charity, Crime | Posted on March 10th, 2026 | return to news

Project to protect women and girls in rural Dorset

Dorset Police are working with charities to signpost the support that is available to women and girls who could be victims of violence.

Dorset Police want to see the eradication of violence against women and girls in rural communities.

To this end, the force is working with domestic abuse and stalking charity Paragon, The YOU Trust, and the STARS Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service to provide opportunities for people living and working within rural areas to find out more about the support services available.

There will be a series of contact points throughout the year for anyone to come and discuss any concerns or find out more about the work the organisations are doing to support victims and tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG).

The scheme was launched at the Young Farmers weekend event in Weymouth, which attracts members of rural communities from across the county and the wider South West region.

Last year, Dorset Police launched its Here for Her Safety campaign outlining its commitment to working with partners to support victims of VAWG and take robust action against perpetrators.

Inspector Adam Gill, of Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We are committed to the safety of all members of our rural communities, but we must acknowledge that women and girls are disproportionately affected when it comes to violence and harassment.

“We know that VAWG offences can be underreported in rural communities and are determined to work with our partners, such as Paragon and STARS, to highlight the fantastic support there is out there for victims and make it as easy as possible for those living in rural areas to access these services.

“We also want to highlight the collaborative work that is going on across the various agencies to tackle these issues head-on and show that by taking proactive action, we are here for the safety of women and girls in our rural communities.”

Ginty McDermott, Paragon manager, said: “We are excited to be joining the Rural Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) scheme to help reach women and girls living in rural communities.

“Through this partnership, we will be raising awareness and offering safety advice to ensure women and girls feel supported, informed and protected.

“Our focus is on improving access to services, strengthening community understanding and enhancing safety across rural areas, so that no one feels isolated or unable to seek help.”

A spokesperson for STARS Dorset said: “It’s great to see different local organisations coming together to raise awareness of abuse, particularly those living in rural areas.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe, heard and supported, no matter where they live. Rural isolation should never be a barrier to accessing specialist support.

“By attending these events, we are creating a safe space for people in the community to ask questions, seek guidance and feel empowered to reach out for help.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am fully committed to creating an environment in Dorset where women and girls are protected from violence and harm and are free from the fear of abuse.

“In rural areas, isolation, limited public transport and close-knit communities can make it even harder for victims to seek help or be heard. No woman or girl should feel trapped by geography or by silence.

“My office, alongside Dorset Police and partner agencies, is working to ensure that support services, policing resources and community awareness reach every corner of Dorset, so that those living in our villages and countryside know they are not alone and that help is always within reach.”