New figures show improved charge rates for sexual offences in Wiltshire
The figures reflect a nation wide rise
Data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) has shown charge rates for sexual offences in Wiltshire have increased.
The number of sexual offences resulting in a charge or summons in Wiltshire has risen a huge 4.1%, with rape charges also up 3.9%.
Both are up more than the national figures, which has risen slightly from 5.5% to 5.7%.
A step in the right direction
Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Philip Wilkinson has welcomed the stats, saying they show things are going in the right direction.
“Violent and sexual crimes against women and girls cause great concern in our communities and we have seen a real push nationally to tackle these growing issues.”
Mr Wilkinson has worked closely with new Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police Catherine Roper, who also welcomed the data, saying it reflects a broadly positive trend.
She said: “Whilst care must always be taken in interpreting statistics, the focus and commitment from across Wiltshire Police to improve our standards and professionalism of service appears to be being evidenced in the positive trajectory shown in the report.”
The work doesn't stop here
More than three-quarters of a million pounds has been invested in a specialist team tasked with investigating and preventing violence against women and girls (VAWG).
Last week, Wiltshire Police announced the launching of Listening Circles.
It follows last years We Are Listening campaign, but some sections of the female community were underrepresented.
Listening Circles is aimed at encouraging victims of sexual offences to share their experiences and shape the service Police provide.
Chief Constable Roper said that the Force will continue to drive forward improvements, despite the positive data.
“Indicators such as these will, I hope, be welcomed by everyone within the organisation and the communities we serve as a result of the positive steps that are being made to create lasting change and to continue to evolve and improve the service we provide,” the Chief Constable said.