NEW cameras, lighting and a CCTV equipped van are being used in Hereford to battle violence against women.

The Time for Change campaign calls on every person in Herefordshire to play their part in ending male violence against women and girls, and it formally launches today (June 23).

It will encourage people to help put a stop to unacceptable male behaviours and deep-rooted misogyny, said a Herefordshire Council spokesperson.

The Herefordshire Community Safety Partnership's Safer Streets activity, funded by the Home Office, will be providing training, programs, and funding for the county.

Funding was provided for 40 CCTV cameras in areas identified by women and girls identified in a survey as being places they felt nervous. These locations will also see landscaping and lighting improvements where needed.

Hereford Times: CCTV control room in Hereford Picture: Hattie Young CCTV control room in Hereford Picture: Hattie Young

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The campaign will also provide support for local charity Vennture, who received funding for a van fitted with mobile CCTV. This van patrols, with trained volunteers in pairs, to help women and girls get home safely.

A training scheme will be held for nighttime economy staff on how to spot inappropriate behavior and safely intervene, and an education intervention programme, delivered by Purple Leaf and West Mercia Women's Aid will work with teenagers to discuss sexual harassment, appropriate behavior, and available support.

A video, produced by Herefordshire company Rural Media, will be the cornerstone of the campaign and shared across the region and used in training sessions.

It is based on the positive and negative interactions experienced by men and women in Herefordshire experienced, and how experiences can shape their own perceptions and behaviors.

Hereford Times: West Mercia Police, local councillors, Hereford Pubwatch and Vennture on the Hereford Big Night Out West Mercia Police, local councillors, Hereford Pubwatch and Vennture on the Hereford Big Night Out

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Detective chief inspector Emma Whitworth said West Mercia Police focus on preventing and responding to domestic abuse, serious sexual offences, stalking and harassment with the aim of bringing offenders to justice and supporting victims.

"By standing against all forms of abuse, and holding perpetrators accountable, we can create a society where women and girls are equal, respected, and safe," she said.

West Mercia PCC John Campion urges people to call out inappropriate behaviours.

"I have never walked in their shoes, feared walking alone, or made changes to my behaviour to make myself feel safer.

"However, I understand the privilege I have as a man to not experience this, and it doesn't stop me wanting to play my part."

The campaign will continue throughout spring and summer, supplemented by digital billboards and a poster campaign across the county.

Police and other organisations held the Big Night Out in Hereford earlier this month to show local councillors the challenges they face when protecting vulnerable people, including women who may feel threatened.