AVON and Somerset Police has launched a new initiative to transform and improve the way it addresses domestic abuse.
Through the scheme, known as Project Blue Light, police and leading academics will take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to analyse how domestic abuse is currently policed – to look at what is working well, what’s not, and where there are blind spots or opportunities for meaningful improvement.
The goal is to radically transform Avon and Somerset Police’s response to domestic abuse across six key pillars:
- Investigation and safeguarding – Ensuring investigations are robust and victims are effectively safeguarded.
- Disruption and deterrence – Improving Avon and Somerset Police’s ability to identify and disrupt perpetrators.
- Victim engagement – Building trust and providing better support for victims.
- Learning, development, and officer/staff wellbeing – Equipping officers and staff with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to do this challenging work effectively.
- Data and performance – Leveraging insights from data to drive better outcomes.
- Digital forensics – Harnessing technology to improve investigations and prevent harm.
The first stage of the academic research and deep dive of Avon and Somerset Police’s domestic abuse approach is expected to take at least six months. This will then inform the next stages of Project Bright Light.
Chief Constable Sarah Crew said: “This isn’t just about making recommendations. It’s about developing practical, actionable solutions that we can implement across Avon and Somerset, solutions that will be informed by evidence, grounded in best practice, and designed to have a tangible impact.
“Most importantly, this is about making a real difference for the people we serve. It’s about ensuring that victims of domestic abuse get the support they need, that perpetrators are held accountable, and that we, as a force, are better equipped to handle the complexities of these cases with professionalism and care.”