DYFED-POWYS POLICE said this week that they are delivering tailored vulnerability training to colleges and universities, aiming to safeguard students most at risk of sexual violence in the nighttime economy.

The programme specifically targets students aged 16 to 23, a group identified as being disproportionately affected by gender-based violence. This initiative delivers two strands of work: training for staff and teachers to help them identify risks and respond to disclosures, and interactive sessions for students to equip them with tools to recognise and respond to harassment and violence.

Focus on staff and students

Superintendent Chris Neve, Dyfed-Powys Police’s prevention lead, explained:
“As part of our prevention work, we’ve identified a group – namely college and university students – who are at high risk of sexual harassment and violence while out at night. This programme seeks to equip both students and those who work with them with the knowledge they need to stay safe.

“Our aim is to empower young people with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to recognise and respond to sexual harassment and violence. By working closely with educators and student services, we can also ensure that staff are well-prepared to support victims and address inappropriate behaviours effectively.

“We are committed to ending violence against women and girls, and to achieve this, the entire community must work together. This project forms part of a wider strategy spanning generations, from schoolchildren to police officers and our partners.”

Positive engagement and results

So far, over 600 students have participated in awareness events, with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Staff report increased confidence in handling disclosures, while students found advice on spotting potential offenders invaluable.

The programme also includes workshops on sextortion, focusing on identifying offences, reporting procedures, and accessing support. Upcoming online events will provide more in-depth guidance on managing disclosures and staying safe on social media.

Collaborative approach

Dafydd Llywelyn, Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed-Powys, said:
“It is vital that we provide key information to young people and staff in educational settings across Dyfed-Powys. For meaningful change to happen, we must all play our part.”

The Dyfed-Powys Police Upstander Programme is jointly funded by the Home Office Safer Streets 5 fund, aiming to foster attitudinal and behavioural changes to combat violence against women and girls while creating safe community spaces.

In addition to the student-focused training, Dyfed-Powys Police are running several complementary initiatives:

• Vulnerability and awareness training for 14 to 16-year-olds and school staff, delivered through educational performances.
• Man Ally training for police officers, staff, and partners to promote proactive allyship.
• A public awareness campaign addressing unacceptable behaviour and raising awareness of sexual harassment in public spaces.

This comprehensive approach underscores the force’s commitment to fostering safer environments and reducing gender-based violence across the community.