A GROUNDBREAKING unit has begun work tackling violence against women and girls.

The team, the first of its kind nationally, will operate across the district and regionally.

Involved in the initiative are West Yorkshire Police, and the region's combined authority and Violence Reduction Partnership.

Initially the scheme will run as a year-long pilot, supporting the delivery of a 'safety of women and girls' strategy launched by West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin in 2022.

Ms Brabin says: "Here in West Yorkshire we're leading the way in tackling violence against women and girls.

"I’m delighted at the establishment of our women’s safety unit, a pioneering collaboration of experts committed to long-term change.

"I want every woman and girl in our region to know that we’re here for you, fighting your corner, and we will not stop until each and every one of you feels safe."

The unit is headed up by Detective Chief Superintendent Lee Berry, director of the Violence Reduction Partnership.

He says: "The safety of women and girls is a golden thread that runs through every element of our work to tackle serious violent crime across West Yorkshire.

"The creation of this dedicated unit will enhance our capabilities, ensuring a truly co-ordinated response across communities."

And Detective Superintendent Vanessa Rolfe, of West Yorkshire Police, says: "We're pleased to be part of this innovative approach to tackling violence towards women and girls.

"It cannot be stressed enough how important working in partnership can be in supporting victims and providing an overall better service to our communities.

"West Yorkshire Police are committed to achieving an environment where women and girls are safe, and perpetrators are rightly brought to justice."

The launch of the unit took place at a Women of West Yorkshire Network event attended by guests including Dame Clare Gerada, co-chair of the NHS Assembly and president of the Royal College of General Practitioners.

It was hosted by the region’s 'inclusivity champion', Fatima Khan-Shah.

She says: "As inclusivity champion I’m dedicated to providing a space for people to discuss what matters to them and help drive positive change.

"I’m delighted a trailblazer like Dame Clare Gerada attended our event – she has paved the way for women through her career and it was an honour to have her here.

"It was also a great moment to highlight the work taking place in West Yorkshire to improve safety for women and girls."