Crime data indicates that Bexley experiences comparatively low instances of Violence Against Women and Girls. However, we also know that much VAWG is not reported but as an area of abuse, it is gaining more awareness and therefore this may change. We need to encourage and increase trust in reporting, and to challenge and discourage VAWG.

A public health approach to tackling VAWG is key. This means we must use an evidence-based, partnership, community-focused and long-term approach. There must be a focus on harm reduction, primary prevention, early intervention, and deterrence. To do this, there must be collaboration between partners and information sharing, particularly from the local authority, police, health, education, and voluntary sector.

It will be important to identify and explore pre-existing services available and accessible to Bexley residents and to ensure residents are aware of the offers available to them, to make best use of resources.

There should be ongoing research of underlying causes of VAWG, and analysis of the existing services and approaches to identify what works and to develop solutions to problems.

Consideration of new legislation around VAWG and an anticipated increase in reporting VAWG will impact the work we undertake. As new legislation, policy and guidance is brought into force, such as the Serious Violence Duty, partners’ duties and powers may change and this might require a change to or addition of objectives for the Working Group.

Furthermore, increased awareness and media reporting on VAWG will likely affect feelings of safety and trust in services offered, and partners need to be prepared for this and to continue to offer the best services possible and demonstrate our commitment to tackling VAWG.