A POLICE officer whose beat includes Wincanton and Somerton has helped launch a scheme offering women the chance to highlight areas where they feel unsafe.

Avon and Somerset Police has launched a ‘Walk and talk’ initiative in Somerset, where women can arrange to meet female officers and PCSOs to show them areas in which they feel vulnerable.

The scheme was introduced by Police Sergeant Roseanna Green, from the Wincanton and Somerton Neighbourhood Team.

It aims to build trust among women and help the police understand areas in which women do not feel comfortable or safe.

For example, there may be an area where women feel unsafe due to poor street-lighting, or because they’ve witnessed or experienced anti-social behaviour or harassment in certain locations.

The initiative is part of Avon and Somerset Police’s work to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Sgt Green said: “We know there are women out there who don’t feel completely safe walking the streets and we want those women to know what we will listen and that we are committed to doing all we can to make our streets safer.

“We want to take the time to have a proper conversation and build an understanding of the concerns and worries that women and girls are facing in our communities to help us bring some positive and proactive change on our streets.”

The force is inviting women aged 18 and over who live in Somerset to get in touch and they will be paired with a female officer to take a walk at a mutually convenient time.

The walks are flexible and will last around 30 minutes. They can take place any time of day, including early morning or evening, as these are often times when women feel most vulnerable due to darkness and fewer people on the streets.

If you’re interested in booking a walk and walk with Avon and Somerset Police, visit www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/apply/walk-and-talk.