Violence can have a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities. While Devon and Cornwall remains one of the safest places in the country, we recognise that too many people still experience harm, particularly those who face greater vulnerability because of their age, circumstances or life experiences.
The Commissioner is committed to breaking the cycle of violence through prevention, early intervention and partnership working. We know that violence is not inevitable and that by understanding and addressing its causes, we can reduce harm and help people to lead safer, healthier lives.
Many people who become involved in violence, either as victims or perpetrators, have experienced significant adversity during childhood. Experiences such as domestic abuse, family conflict, poor mental health, neglect, exclusion from education, substance misuse and other forms of trauma can increase the risk of future involvement in violence. Acting early and providing the right support can help prevent harm before it occurs.
Violence in Devon and Cornwall takes many forms. It includes violence against women and girls, domestic abuse, sexual violence, youth violence, exploitation, knife crime and violence linked to substance misuse. Much of this harm occurs behind closed doors and can remain hidden, making it vital that agencies work together to identify risk, protect people and provide effective support.
The Commissioner works closely with Community Safety Partnerships (CPSs) and the statutory partners listed under the Serious Violence Duty to implement projects and strategies to prevent violence. The Commissioner holds the convening role of the duty and the associated funds that are received from the Home Office to commission projects that have a positive impact.
This collaborative approach supports a wide range of activity, including:
- Early intervention programmes for children and young people.
- Community-based projects that build resilience and strengthen protective factors.
- Violence reduction initiatives informed by local data, evidence and community need.
- Work to address the impact of adverse childhood experiences and trauma.
- Efforts to improve awareness, prevention and response to violence against women and girls.
- Programmes that support individuals transitioning from custody back into the community.
- Community youth work via outreach.
Disrupting violence against women and girls
In July 2025, the Commissioner launched the Disrupt programme of work, which aims to reduce the prevalence, severity and normalisation of violence against women and girls.
We will work with local organisations, providers and agencies using new approaches and radical ideas to:
- Shift focus from response to prevention
- Test out new ways to provoke change
- Shift narratives about consent and accountability
Visit the Disrupt pages on this website to find out more about the programme and the work being carried out across Devon and Cornwall, which includes:
- Male allyship
- Teenager coercive control training
- Support for parents and carers
- Spiking prevention
- Night buses
- Stalking awareness
- Support for the community and voluntary sector
How to report serious violence
In an emergency call 999 immediately.
What to do if you need urgent police help but cannot speak – The Silent Solution
If it’s not an emergency, complete the Devon & Cornwall Police online form, call 101, or report via the Police.UK app.
Or report anonymously to Crimestoppers – find them at crimestoppers-uk.org
Get help after experiencing serious violence
Contact the Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900 or visit Victim Care Devon and Cornwall.
For 24/7 support visit Victim Support or call freephone 08 08 16 89 111. For Devon and Cornwall Victim Support phone 0300 303 0554.