Police forces in England and Wales to get units that tackle violence against women

The GuardianSaturday, December 13, 2025 at 10:30:44 PM
Police forces in England and Wales to get units that tackle violence against women
  • All police forces in England and Wales are set to establish dedicated teams to address violence against women and girls (VAWG), including specific units for rape and sexual offences by 2029, as announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat what has been termed a 'national emergency' regarding violence against women.
  • The establishment of these specialist teams is significant as it aims to enhance the police response to sexual offences, addressing longstanding criticisms regarding inadequate handling of such cases and the need for improved support for victims.
  • This development comes amid ongoing concerns about police performance in handling sexual offences, with reports indicating that a quarter of police forces lack basic policies for investigations. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need for systemic reforms in policing to better protect women and girls.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Australia v England: Ashes third Test, day three – live
NeutralWorld Affairs
On day three of the Ashes third Test in Adelaide, Australia resumed play with England trailing by 158 runs at 231-8. Scott Boland was set to bowl the first over of the day, with cooler temperatures around 26 degrees Celsius. England's batting has been criticized for not matching Australia's performance, particularly due to the effectiveness of the Australian bowling attack.
Long waits and ‘unacceptable’ lack of data at NHS gender clinics in England, review finds
NegativeWorld Affairs
A review led by Dr. David Levy has revealed alarming waiting times and a lack of systematic data recording at NHS gender dysphoria clinics in England, with projections indicating waits could extend to 15 years. Currently, patients are waiting an average of five years and seven months for their first assessment, raising serious concerns about the treatment of vulnerable individuals.
Boys to be sent on courses to tackle misogyny in schools
PositiveWorld Affairs
The UK government has announced a new initiative to send boys on courses aimed at addressing misogyny in schools, as part of a broader strategy to combat violence against women and girls in England. This measure is intended to foster a more respectful and equitable environment in educational settings.
79,600 criminal cases are still outstanding in England and Wales. How did we get here?
NegativeWorld Affairs
The Crown Court backlog in England and Wales has reached a record high, with 79,600 criminal cases still outstanding. This situation has raised concerns about the efficiency of the judicial system and the impact on justice delivery.

Ready to build your own newsroom?

Subscribe to unlock a personalised feed, podcasts, newsletters, and notifications tailored to the topics you actually care about