Today sees the publication of a key report from North Wales Police on combatting incidents of sexual misconduct in the force.

The document was prepared following the recent conviction and sentencing of David Carrick for multiple crimes of rape, violence against women and coercive behaviour while he was a Metropolitan Police officer. 

It looks at the implications of the David Carrick case in the local context for North Wales Police, the prevalence of cases of misogyny in the Force, the numbers of cases under investigation and the measures in place to protect the public and ensure the correct vetting of officers.

The report notes that there are currently 27 conduct investigations ongoing relating to 24 individuals within North Wales Police. This number is among the 1662 Police Officers, 186 Police Community Support Officers, 1201 Civilian Staff and 100 Special Constables in the Force in total. 

13 cases relate to violence against women and girls, including sexual misconduct and Police Perpetrated Domestic Abuse (PPDA).

The report also looks into measures to address any reports of misconduct by officers and to safeguard the public. 

To ensure reports of inappropriate behaviour are dealt with appropriately within the organisation and that victims are supported, the Force has developed a four-day Inclusive Leadership Programme (ILP) with Durham University Business School. 

READ MORE: PCC aims to root out officers and staff who "don't uphold standards expected of them"

It is being delivered to all first and second-line supervisors and uses an evidenced-based approach to focus on the importance of inclusive and supportive leadership - which the force says is a critical factor in officers and staff having the confidence to report and challenge inappropriate behaviour by colleagues and supervisors.

Also key to upholding the Force’s standards is the Professional Standards Department (PSD) - all staff within undergo higher levels of vetting than normally expected and are suitably qualified to undertake the role.

The PCC and North Wales Police are firmly committed to supporting victims and investigating any allegations swiftly and transparently. 

However, they recognise that some individuals may prefer reporting to an organisation outside the police. 

With this in mind, they are encouraging any victims who wish to report sexual violence or domestic abuse, but don’t feel they can contact the police, to report to the Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU) or the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC). 

These organisations will provide independent advice, advocacy and can make a third-party report on their behalf should they wish.   

Andy Dunbobbin, Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales said: “Misogyny has no place in the police service, nor should perpetrators of abuse ever hold any office which is meant to protect others. 

“I am reassured to see how much work the Force is doing to combat misogyny, but none of us can rest on our laurels in the fight against abuse and misconduct.”

Amanda Blakeman, Chief Constable of North Wales Police, said: “Our communities rightly expect the highest standards and conduct from all our employees.

“We remain committed to ensuring that our systems are effective in removing officers who are simply not fit to wear the uniform."

Gaynor McKeown, CEO for RASASC and DASU said: “If you or someone you know are a victim of violence or abuse and you want support, advice or advocacy then please contact our services.

"We, with North Wales Police, believe there is no place for abuse within our police force, and will work with them to stop this behaviour and bring perpetrators to justice”
 
To report any incidents to DASU or RASASC, members of the public should contact:

  • RASASC - 01248 670628 or by email: info@rasawales.org.uk
  • DASU - 01492 534705 or email them via their website: Contact Us / Refer to our Services » DASU North Wales