'Violence against women and girls' training event 

A special safeguarding training event for those employed in the Stevenage night time economy, took place in the town on Tuesday (June 20).  

Organised by senior police licencing officer, Gill Akroyd, the event, which was only the second of its kind in Hertfordshire, aimed to provide those working in local hotels, pubs and clubs, with information to help them keep their clientele safe and their establishments recognised as safe environments to spend time in.  

It was also an opportunity for those present to learn what to look for and what they should do, if an incident happens or is reported to them while they are at work. The measures that can be put in place to assist visitors and staff on their premises were also discussed.  

Attendees heard a variety of presentations relating to safeguarding customers, and young people, including HollieGuard – a free app to help protect those at risk of harm, how police teams investigate CSE and the warnings signs to watch out for, the Ask for Angela and Ask for Clive campaigns, how the SIA Investigation Team operates, the white ribbon initiative and Licensing Savi – a new online safeguarding accreditation for pubs and hotels. 

Commenting on the event, Senior Licensing Officer, Gill Akroyd said: "Local and national evidence shows that violence against women and girls (VAWG) can take place in hotels, pubs, cafes and places licensed to sell alcohol.  

"We are working with the industry to highlight the problem and improve standards, and to make sure people employed in these industries are aware of the warning signs and have the confidence to report their concerns. 

"I'd like to thank all those that attended yesterday, we had a great response. VAWG isn't always easy to spot, but there are signs to look out for and we have provided campaign posters and training to raise awareness among customers and staff."