United against violence to women and girls

Businesses from Peterborough and the surrounding area have teamed up to help tackle the issue of violence against women and girls.

The organisations, more than 50 in total including shopping centres, retailers, pubs and hotels to transport operators, have undergone training on identifying predatory behaviour and are each accredited as a Business Against Abuse (BAA).

This means they have made a commitment to being a safe space for all customers, in particular women and girls, and their staff are trained in spotting predatory behaviour.

The businesses have been provided with BAA branded lanyards, plaques, window stickers and posters which showcase their dedication to preventing violence against women and girls.

The development of the accreditation and the training, which included inputs from Rape Crisis, has been funded by the Home Office’s Safer Streets 4 scheme.

Chief inspector Ian Lombardo said: “It was brilliant to see more than 150 people come together and make a commitment to making our streets and public spaces safer.

“The police can’t be everywhere but we now have a network of businesses that are committed to tackling violence against women and girls.

He said: “Their staff know how to spot the signs of predatory behaviour and will have the confidence to take action that could prevent a sexual offence.

“For businesses who missed the initial training, don’t worry, we are planning to open it up to the rest of the county.

“Within the next few months, a launch is planned within the Fenland area so please contact us if you are interested in signing up to the scheme.”

Police and crime commissioner Darryl Preston said: “It is great to see so many businesses supporting this joint problem-solving approach demonstrating their commitment to keeping our communities safe.”

For a list of all the businesses signed up to BAA see the full story online at:

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Posters for the new Business Against Abuse campaign