Views wanted on female safety as survey started

Kent’s police commissioner sets up online questionnaire

Kent’s police and crime commissioner has launched a survey to gauge how safe women and girls feel in the county.

Matthew Scott is hoping females will fill in the anonymous questionnaire to provide a true picture of levels of violence, abuse, harassment and stalking taking place.

It will also seek to determine how safe people feel, both at night and day, in a variety of places - be it at work, in education or online.

The force also wants to know whether people report cases of violence or abuse and if they feel their cases are treated appropriately.

Crime commissioner Mr Scott said: “The most powerful evidence comes from the testimony of those who have been subjected to these crimes, or who are worried about them.

“I would encourage all women and girls to let me know their views so that we can determine what all agencies can do to make

you safer.

“This is an important survey that I hope will make a real difference to safety in our county.”

The survey, which takes five minutes to complete, is part of an on-going fact-finding project to tackle levels of violence against women and girls in

Kent.

A report reviewing the procedures for tackling violence against women is due to be published next year.

Mr Scott retained his role as Kent’s police and crime commissioner for a second term in May.

He received 56% of the vote,

avoiding the need for second preferences to be counted – the election using a separate voting system to what is usually seen in Kent and requiring people to pick a first and second choice candidate.

To take part in the questionnaire, visit bit.ly/3gXgibc

Kent’s police and crime commissioner Matthew Scott, who was re-elected in May, has launched an inquiry into violence against women and girls