Wiltshire Council strengthens commitment to tackling violence against women and girls

Friday, 24 July 2026 12:20

Wiltshire Council has reaffirmed its commitment to ending violence against women and girls (EVAWG) by agreeing to appoint a dedicated councillor champion to help drive awareness, support partnership working and ensure the issue remains a priority across the organisation.

The champion will work closely with council services, partner agencies, community organisations and residents to promote action that helps prevent violence, supports victims and survivors, and challenges behaviours that contribute to abuse and harm.

The appointment builds on a significant programme of work already taking place across Wiltshire to address domestic abuse, as well as the emerging work to end violence against women and girls. This includes collaboration with Wiltshire Police, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, health partners, schools, charities and voluntary sector organisations through the county's Domestic Abuse Local Partnership Board and Violence against Women and Girls Board, driven through the Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership.

Alongside Wiltshire’s commissioned support service for domestic abuse, provided by FearFree, partnership activities have included education and prevention work with young people, enhanced support for survivors of domestic abuse and their families, local survivor survey, awareness campaigns, and partnership activity to improve safety across Wiltshire communities.

The decision to appoint a champion was made at Full Council on 21 July and comes against a backdrop of growing national concern about violence against women and girls. The National Police Chiefs' Council has described violence against women and girls as a "national emergency", with offences recorded by police increasing significantly in recent years. While domestic abuse and other forms of violence can affect people of all genders, the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) framework focuses on crimes and behaviours that disproportionately impact women and girls, recognising the specific risks and inequalities they face.

Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "We heard some very powerful personal testimonies in Full Council, and I thank everyone who contributed to such a sensitive and heartfelt discussion.

“Violence against women and girls remains a significant issue that has a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities. Wiltshire Council is committed to tackling domestic abuse and supporting victims and survivors of all genders, and this work will continue.

“This champion role will provide an additional focus on the experiences of women and girls, who are disproportionately affected by certain forms of violence and abuse. It will help raise awareness, strengthen partnerships, and build on the good work already taking place across Wiltshire. Most importantly, it means those affected know they will be listened to, believed and supported.

"Everyone has a role to play in challenging harmful behaviours and creating safer communities. By working together, we can build on the strong foundations already in place and make a real difference for women and girls across Wiltshire."

The new champion will act as a visible advocate, helping to connect council activity with the wider work being undertaken by local partners and ensuring opportunities to improve outcomes for women and girls are identified and promoted.

Wiltshire Council remains committed to supporting a coordinated, county-wide approach that focuses on prevention, early intervention, education and support for those affected by violence and abuse.

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, support is available. FearFree offer support and advice for victims and families affected by domestic abuse in Wiltshire, as well as support for those who wish to change their abusive behaviour. Contact them via: