POLICE have pledged to build on work to tackle violence against women and girls.

A senior officer with the West Yorkshire force has reflected on the success of initiatives so far, but admits "there is more to do".

Detective Supt Vanessa Rolfe was speaking following an annual week of action which raised awareness of the issue and targeted offenders.

During the campaign, over 140 arrests were made and more than 60 charges brought.

Also, West Yorkshire Police worked with partner organisations to support the further development of safe spaces for women and girls.

Since a Violence Against Women and Girls strategy was introduced in 2021, the spaces have been created at public locations and online.

Detective Supt Rolfe, the force lead for tackling violence against women and girls, says: "This latest week of action was a great snapshot of our ongoing efforts to make a difference across all five districts of West Yorkshire.

"Working with partners to create safe spaces has proven incredibly successful so far and we hope to continue to build on this area, ensuring women and girls are safe across the region.

"We know that there is more to do to stamp out this behaviour, but we will continue to push forward and support those in need, when they need it the most."

Initiatives in the Bradford district include the JogOn campaign.

Launched through the Safer Bradford partnership – which includes Bradford Council, West Yorkshire Police and the NHS – it aims to combat incidents of harassment, abuse and unwanted behaviour towards female runners.

The venture involves education and enforcement work.

Visits by neighbourhood policing officers to park runs and running clubs in the district found that the issue was a widespread concern amongst women.

As part of JogOn, plain-clothed female officers have been running in 'hotspot' areas to identify offenders, and victims and witnesses are being encouraged to report incidents.

The campaign is welcomed by West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin, who says: "The safety of women and girls is at the heart of our mission for a safer, fairer West Yorkshire.

"We should all be able to enjoy the benefits exercise can bring, without fear of harassment.

"Our message remains absolutely clear – these behaviours are unacceptable. The JogOn campaign is reaffirming our commitment to that message and is a fantastic example of the strength of partnership working to improve the safety of women and girls."