Dorset Police has strengthened its ongoing partnership with Premier League club AFC Bournemouth aimed at tackling issues around violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Representatives from the Force recently visited the club to give a training input on VAWG related issues to its concourse staff.

The aim of the day was to provide them with information and advice on how to spot the signs of offences and support victims, as well as encouraging reporting to police.

A further input was given to hospitality staff ahead of the team’s fixture against Liverpool on Saturday 1 February 2025.

The inputs build on ties already forged between the Force and the football clubs, which has seen Dorset Police support a video created by the club during the 16 Days of Action Activism against gender-based violence in November 2024 to raise awareness of VAWG issues through the eyes of a female fan.

The partnership work has also seen the introduction of two female operational football officers who regularly attend AFC Bournemouth matches.

Detective Superintendent Neil Wright, Dorset Police’s lead for VAWG, said: “As we mark Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, tackling violence against women and girls remains a key priority for the Force. We have been delighted to work with AFC Bournemouth to raise these issues and increase awareness amongst fans of all genders attending their fixtures.

“By delivering this training to matchday staff, it builds on the already close working between the club and our officers at AFC Bournemouth’s games and strengthens our commitment to ensuring women and girls can enjoy the occasion and feel safe.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, David Sidwick said: “Training matchday staff so they know the signs to look out for and adding the operational football officers, will make a tangible difference to the safety and security of all fans who attend the Vitality Stadium."

AFC Bournemouth Head of Safeguarding Meredith Hack said: “We’re very grateful to have such a strong partnership with Dorset Police, and are proud of what we have achieved together in discussing some very important topics."