Over 100 attendees participated in Cumbria Police's multi-agency 'Changing Culture' conference last week, held to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG) in the county.

Held at The Roundthorn Hotel in Penrith on October 3, the conference attracted people from different organisations.

Detective Chief Inspector Hayley Wilkinson, Cumbria Police's Professional Standards Department, said: “We were delighted with the attendance for the event, which served to highlight the importance agencies across Cumbria are putting on tackling violence against women and girls.

“Whilst we as a Constabulary were able to inform people about the steps we have taken to better support victims and pursue perpetrators, the day was also a great opportunity to learn about the services and resources other agencies are committing to helping protect and support women and girls in Cumbria.”

The conference was opened by Cumbria Police's Deputy Chief Constable Darren Martland, who spoke about learning from recent high-profile cases and the importance of public confidence in policing.

Further talks included the presentation of the force's VAWG strategy and on-going efforts to bring perpetrators to justice, explained by Cumbria Police's Inspector for VAWG, Matt Belshaw.

Detective Constable Susanne Hayward of Cumbria's Professional Standards Department also spoke about 'Abuse of Power for Sexual Purpose, how to spot the signs, and how police approach allegations of misconduct within its own organisation.

An impactful talk came from guest speaker Julie Graham, Specialist Domestic Abuse Worker from Westmorland and Furness Council.

She touched on subjects including domestic abuse in the workplace and the role of employers in supporting victims and dealing with perpetrators.

She said: “It was great to be part of the Changing Cultures conference and meet so many agencies with a passion and commitment to supporting all survivors of domestic abuse.

“Employers have a responsibility to their staff which includes adopting a zero-tolerance approach to perpetrators of abuse as well as implementing support and safety measures for survivors.

“Statistics show that one in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. This includes our colleagues, friends and family members. Domestic abuse is everybody's business and working together in partnership will achieve the strongest outcomes.”