PDS team wins award for innovative use of technology in tackling violence against women and girls

The Police Digital Service is proud to announce that the team leading a special service has been awarded top honours in the category ‘Technology and its use in tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)’ at the 2024 VAWG and Operation Soteria recognition event.

This award highlights the team’s tireless efforts to leverage cutting-edge technology in support of some of the UK’s most vulnerable individuals. The service provides critical support to victims and survivors of domestic abuse, stalking, and harassment. Through a bespoke, lifesaving technology solution, the service ensures that those in danger can access support, wherever they are in the UK. The service ensures swift and consistent safeguarding around the clock, 365 days a year.

Users of the service have shared that it has allowed them to feel “reassured”, “regain control of their lives” and “help with feeling safe”.

The covert service, managed by a core team comprising Rob Mason, Bill Tillbrook, Craig Downham, Liam Macdougall and Simon Laurence, has this year expanded its accessibility by offering the service in 43 languages, making it available to a wider range of communities across the UK. The service is now embedded within 37 police forces, with more forces planning to join, helping to ensure more victims and survivors are reached.

Since its inception, the service has supported over 29,500 individuals, with 4,108 victims and survivors using the service in the last year alone. The team’s unwavering dedication has been instrumental in increasing trust and confidence among vulnerable people, ultimately enhancing public safety.

The award was presented at this year’s VAWG and Op Soteria recognition event, which took place at Salesforce Tower in London on 17 September. This prestigious event, jointly hosted by the VAWG Taskforce and Operation Soteria, recognises officers, staff, and volunteers working across sectors to tackle the threat of violence against women and girls.

“I am delighted and honoured by this award.” – said Rob Mason, Service Director at PDS. “My gratitude extends to all those within policing, PDS and many others who have supported us and contributed to the success of this service in safeguarding some of the most vulnerable in our communities.”

Tony Eastaugh, Interim CEO at PDS commented: “We are incredibly proud of Rob, Bill, Craig, Liam and Simon for their commitment and passion to this service. They are making a real difference in the lives of victims and survivors, and this recognition reflects the outstanding work they continue to do every day.

“With support from the Home Office, the VAWG programme and 37 police forces using the service, we are in a strong position to continue safeguarding and improving the lives of many more vulnerable people across the UK.”

The Police Digital Service remains committed to providing innovative solutions to help safeguard victims and survivors, as part of policing’s wider effort to tackle violence against women and girls.