A NEW campaign has been launched to help keep women and girls safe in Winchester.

With students returning to the city this weekend, police have launched a new campaign to improve the safety of people in the city.

Working with the city council and the University of Winchester, the aim of the scheme is to improve safety for women, girls, and all those who live and work in the community.

The campaign is planned to raise awareness across the city, particularly in bars, clubs and pubs, of criminal behaviour and the services available for support.

Winchester’s District Commander, Chief Inspector Jon Turton, said: “Winchester is a great city to study and live in, and everyone should feel safe to go out in Winchester at night and enjoy themselves.

“This year has been such a difficult and challenging time for all of us, and we know how much everyone is looking forward to enjoying themselves as the next semester starts. Our patrols are in place to support that by disrupting offenders and identifying those who need our help.

“A central focus for us is working with local businesses, our communities, our invaluable partners across the city and of course our vital volunteers and third sector organisations to ensure that everyone can enjoy Winchester safely.

“A key strand of this will be ensuring that women and girls feel safe on our streets. One of our main focuses continues to be the protection of women and girls from violence in all areas of their lives, whether this be getting home after a night out or ensuring they’re safe behind closed doors once at home.

“We encourage anyone who feels uncomfortable while out in the city to approach patrolling officers, street pastors or a member of staff in local venue. If no-one is available and you feel unsafe you can call 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.”