Dorset Police have launched a new initiative to support women and girls living in rural communities across Dorset. The project, titled Here for her safety, was announced on 6 March 2026 and focuses on raising awareness about safety and providing direct help to those in more isolated areas.
The police are working with several local charity partners to deliver the service, including Paragon, The YOU Trust, and the STARS Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service. These organisations will help reach people who may find it difficult to access traditional support networks because of where they live or a lack of nearby services.
The scheme was officially started during a Young Farmers weekend event in Weymouth to connect directly with people from the countryside and the wider South West region. This launch event was designed to engage with a demographic that often faces unique challenges when trying to report crime or seek assistance.
According to Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick, rural isolation and limited public transport can make it much harder for victims to seek help or be heard. The project aims to overcome these barriers by creating regular contact points throughout the year where safety advice and support are easily accessible.
Inspector Adam Gill of the Rural Crime Team and Paragon manager Ginty Mcdermott are among the key figures leading the effort to improve safety networks. By working together, the police and charities hope to make it easier for women in close-knit communities to speak up and find the professional care they need.
