A new taskforce, set up to deal with violence against woman and girls in Jersey, is making a call for evidence.

The independent group will consider how best the island can target VAWG crimes and behaviours.

Kate Wright, Independent Chair of the taskforce says she is passionate about tackling this issue.

"We have a real opportunity to influence how future generations understand and experience this type of abuse. I would encourage all islanders who are willing and able, to share their views and experience through the call for evidence."

VAWG is any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women.

The taskforce is asking islanders to give evidence through three different means; an online survey,  a Share Your Story - testimony submission and an 'online safety heatmap'.

The online survey is for anyone to contribute their views, regardless of whether they have direct experience.

'Share Your Story' is designed for anyone with experience of VAWG to give their testimony.

Finally, the heatmap allows islanders to identify areas that make them feel unsafe, and suggest what the government can do to make improvements.

Home Affairs Minister Deputy Helen Miles says the launch of the taskforce is fundamental to Jersey’s progress in tackling all forms of violence against women and girls.

"I’m grateful to the members of the taskforce for their dedication to the cause and look forward to the findings that will shape a strategy to make a real difference to islanders.” 

The call for evidence will be open until 10 December.

The findings will be analysed, and the taskforce will report back to government with recommendations by next April.

It will be doing separate research with support services, young people, victims and survivors.