Funding to strengthen training to spot hidden crimes

11 Feb 2015 02:17 PM

Public Service Minister Leighton Andrews has announced funding for the four Police Forces to raise awareness and strengthen understanding of so called “Honour Based Violence”.

A grant of £40,000 will allow training to reinforce Honour Based Violence (HBV) as local and regional priorities and enhance the knowledge and understanding of professionals.

The training will ensure officers across Wales have the appropriate knowledge, skills and mechanisms in place to protect those at greatest risk of harm. It will bring parity between all four forces, Leighton Andrews said:

“We know of cases where investigations and support for victims have been frustrated by a lack of knowledge and evidence, or the ‘right knowledge’ has come too late to help.

“This funding will improve understanding of the unique characteristics of Honour Based Violence and Forced Marriage (FM).

“The Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Bill places a duty on public bodies to assess, plan and make provision for all forms of Violence Against Women and Girls. We will train relevant staff within the four Police Forces to be able to recognise, ask and act and to support victims.

“The training will help victims in Wales to feel safe and secure in reporting these crimes, knowing appropriate support and protection will be provided.”

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales Sophie Howe said:

“It is essential we continue to support our officers and staff by providing the training and expertise to recognise and respond to complex issues such as honour based violence and forced marriage.

“The funding from Welsh Government will help towards the delivery of training and again demonstrates the commitment of Ministers to shine a spotlight on inequalities.

“We will continue to work with all our partners in health, local government and the third sector to bring an end to violence against women and girls.”