West Yorkshire Police becomes one of the first forces in the country to record instances of misogyny
Its another step towards women's safety in West Yorkshire
Last updated 1st Dec 2021
West Yorkshire has taken another step towards a safer region for women and girls as the police are set to start recording instances of misogyny.
From today (December 1), West Yorkshire Police is joining a number of other forces across the country, to tackle hate crime and gendered hostility.
It means when victims feel they have been targeted and are asked by police, in relation to all of the protected characteristics covered by Hate Crime legislation, they will also be asked if they feel it was motivated by their sex.
If the victim confirms this is the case, it will be recorded.
The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, welcomed the move, which comes at the same time as a ‘priority’ is created within the new Police and Crime Plan around diversity, equality, and inclusion.
'This erosion of people’s safety cannot be allowed to continue'
She said:
“I said I would honour my promise to women and girls when it came to their safety, and I am delighted that West Yorkshire has now reached this important milestone.
“It may not currently be a crime and I know this is being reviewed by the Law Commission, but this is a significant step forward.
“No-one should be victimised for who they are and those who seek to discriminate in this way, should realise that they are potentially committing a hate crime.
“Over the years, misogynistic comments in particular, have been normalised in society, often providing a platform for more serious offences.
“I also welcome the recording of misandry alongside misogyny, recognising that 750k men were subject to domestic abuse in the last year.
“This erosion of people’s safety cannot be allowed to continue, and we must confront it in all its forms."