VAWG Meeting update.

Dear Residents, 

On Wednesday 12th November we held our first violence against women and young girls (VAWG) engagement. This took place in the tenants hall in the Maiden Lane Estate NW1 and was attended by our ward councillor Patricia Leman and Police Panel chair Claire Pask. Residents from Maiden Lane, Agar Grove and Camden Square were also in attendance. A number of issues were discussed in an open and friendly atmosphere. As the Police officer for our ward I was keen to hear what I could do better in relation to this issue. Most attendees agreed that Police should be conducting more patrols throughout the ward and focusing on increasing women’s confidence to walk/travel through the ward. How the police respond to and take seriously allegations of violence against woman was also raised by numerous attendees. 

During discussion I was concerned to hear that women either don’t feel motivated or confidant to report violence to the police. I remind all that these matters are serious and should be reported via 999. However, I have provided my direct work E-mail to attendees and have offered to assist in reporting VAWG offences should this be preferred.  

I will now be further consulting with our female residents to figure out when we should hold our next VAWG engagement and where. I will also be arranging a ward walk about and will be encouraging as many of you, especially female residents to attend. Walkabouts in the late evening are a great opportunity for residents to engage with the Police/Local Council/Community leaders and help boost confidence for our women residents to feel safe when walking on our streets. I will update you as soon as I have dates and times confirmed. 

A big Thank You! to all those who attended the engagement. I hope we can get even more attendees for the next meet up. And also a big Thank You! to our ward councillor Patricia Leman for her encouragement and leadership on this issue. 

Many Thanks

Michael