Police in Lancashire tackling increased violence against women
The Police and Crime Commissioner has invited local leaders to learn more
Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner has invited council leaders, heads of business, and charities to a conference at Ribby Hall - to discuss the best ways to tackle an increase of violence and abuse against women and girls during the winter months.
Figures show there are more reports of abuse, sexual misconduct and violence as nights draw in and more alcohol is consumed.
This year PCC Andrew Snowden is worried the World Cup will mean more women are suffering behind closed doors as well.
He said:
"This summit is about bringing leaders together to talk about more we can to help tackle violence against women and girls across our county.
"We've got the World Cup on, plus the run up to Christmas which is one of the busiest times for reports of violence to police so that's why we've timed this conference now. It's really powerful for the people in the room to hear this is the most critical time for victims of abuse and sexual violence.
"We're doing a lot internally in the Police but this is about working together with businesses, with local authorities and with charities about how we can keep people in our county safe.
Police have already launched Operation Night Guardian which will see an increase in patrols on in our town centres at night time.
There will also be specially trained detectives in plain clothes in bars and clubs looking for signs of abusive behaviour, stalking and drink spiking.