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I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Violence against women and girls (VAWG), which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey. Ashford Neighbourhood Policing Team recently took part in a Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) intensification week between 7th and 9th October 2026 as part of the Slam The Brakes campaign, focusing on public transport in Ashford.
Perpetrators can use taxis and public transport to isolate, control or intimidate victims, often in environments where their behaviour goes unnoticed. This can leave victims feeling trapped, vulnerable and without a safe means of escape. Because these incidents occur during everyday journeys and away from public view.
As part of the district's involvement in the campaign, officers delivered an educational input at a local Stagecoach bus depot, helping staff to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and vulnerability. Officers also travelled on local bus routes during busy evening periods to identify any concerning predatory behaviour.
Working alongside Ashford Borough Council's Licensing Team and Community Safety Unit, officers also conducted engagement activity during the Night Time Economy with taxi drivers, carried out compliance checks, and undertook welfare visits with riders to promote safeguarding awareness and encourage the reporting of concerns.
We are pleased to say there was no incidents of concern disclosed with positive engagement and input from all partner agencies.
This joint activity strengthened partnership working, raised awareness of abuse and vulnerability, and increased confidence in recognising and reporting concerns. By working together, we can help make Kent's transport network a safer place for women and girls.
To learn more about the campaign and read the experiences of survivors, please visit:
https://www.slamthebrakes.co.uk/about
If you are concerned about someone's welfare or believe somebody may be experiencing domestic abuse, please report it to Kent Police via 101, online through the Kent Police website, or always call 999 in an emergency. If you wish to remain anonymous, information can be provided through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
 Further guidance on Violence Against Women and Girls
Learn more about what VAWG includes, how Kent Police is working to protect victims, and where to access support and information:
Tackling Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) | Kent Police If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.kent.police.uk, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100 per cent anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. Get Involved Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey. We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 
Please click here to complete the survey
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