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On White Ribbon Day and during 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence we are renewing our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and show that we are here for their safety.
Tuesday 25 November 2025 marks the International Day Against Violence Against Women, with 16 days of action then taking place until Wednesday 10 December 2025.
Dorset remains one of the safest counties in the country and perception of crime is often higher than the reality. However, for an individual victim any incident happening to them has a profound impact and, while we remain committed to supporting all of our communities, it remains the case that violence and harassment disproportionately effects women and girls.
Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police’s operational lead for Violence Against Women and Girls, said: “Our aim is that all members of our communities feel safe, but if they do become victims of crime, they also have the confidence to report it to us in the knowledge that they will be fully supported and we will take robust action against the perpetrators.
“We are committed to supporting the most vulnerable members of our society and we remain focused on improving investigation standards and the service provided to victims.
“Nobody should be all right with being a bystander – any such behaviour needs to be called out. We want to show that we are here for the safety of women and girls in Dorset and are striving to create an environment where they are safe and feel safe. We are here for her safety.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I wholeheartedly support White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism, which shine a vital spotlight on the need to end violence against women and girls.
“I have always been very clear that it is not incumbent on women and girls to keep themselves safe; it is the responsibility of us all, as a community, to ensure that harmful behaviours are called out, challenged, and never tolerated."
Throughout the period, Dorset Police will be showing its support on social media, providing advice and information.
If you have been a victim of violence or harassment, please report it to Dorset Police via the Force website or call 101. If anyone is in immediate danger, always call 999. | 
