As part of our Safer Streets campaign, University West of England carried out research for the Community Safety Partnerships. They looked at violence against women and girls (VAWG) across North Somerset and Somerset.

This research looked at understanding the impact of sexual assault and harassment on women in public spaces. This looked at women's experiences across North Somerset and Somerset. It worked to hear their voices around prevention and change.

This research was carried out between 4 January 2022 and 30 March 2022. 

It included:

• a review of existing available data; including information on VAWG occurrences
• consultation with groups and professionals to understand the cause and effect of VAWG crimes in the community
• engagement with women to help inform the approach and messages around prevention. This approach will be used by services to help prevent fear of violence and actual violence against women and girls on the streets

We also spoke to partners who have examples of good practice for making public spaces safer for women. These partners may have already done research into VAWG crime in North Somerset or Somerset area.