Chief Constable joins in 'Walk and Talk' initiative

24 August 2023

Chief Constable Pippa Mills saw first hand the work of an initiative to help tackle violence against women and girls that was started by West Mercia Police Federation member Richard Jones.

CC Mills joined community groups and victims of domestic violence, as well as Richard and PC Rebecca James, violence against women and girls officer, on a Walk and Talk.

The route took them from Madeley to Telford Park, along Legges Way.

The Walk and Talk initiative is part of the Force’s response to tackling violence against women and girls, and the Chief was keen to see its impact.

Richard said: “It was a hideously wet day, the one wet day of the week, which is typically my luck. But it didn’t stop her and we cracked on.

“I think she really enjoyed it, and we finished at the Meeting Point Coffee House for a coffee and a tea.”

The walks last around 30 minutes and focus on encouraging open and constructive conversations between the officer and walker.

The officers want to listen to women’s experiences and for them to feel free to share their thoughts and raise concerns.

The officers also want to learn about recurring themes and find out what the Force and its partners can do to improve safety for women and girls.

The Walk and Talk initiative is part of the Force’s response to tackling violence against women and girls.

Richard said the initiative was building strong links between the police and victims of domestic abuse.

He said: “It gives reassurance that the police take their issues extremely seriously.

“I think it’s also vital that we engage with the public, and with leaders and communities in person.

“I think the Walk and Talk really builds up relationships with the public and it builds up confidence.

“Having that link with the community on a regular basis is fundamental.”

CC Mills said: “This is a fantastic idea and I’m very pleased Inspector Richard Jones started this project in Telford.

“I’d like to encourage its roll out across the force. It offers an ideal opportunity for women to share worries about safety in their neighbourhoods, enabling us and our partners to take appropriate action.

“We are working hard to build trust and confidence in our communities, and initiatives such as this help create strong relationships, which is good for us and good for the people we serve.”

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