Strong male role models have an important part to play in challenging harmful social norms, including attitudes around gender, entitlement and relationships.
It is vital that men stand alongside women to provide a clear counterpoint to the normalisation of male aggression, the objectification of women and girls, and misconceptions around consent. Promoting respect for women, and consistently prioritising the safety of women and girls, is central to changing behaviour and expectations.
The Police and Crime Commissioner is committed to supporting and expanding this work across Devon and Cornwall. There is already a strong foundation to build on, including initiatives such as Safety of Women at Night Charters, targeted policing activity to address predatory behaviour, bystander intervention programmes, and established men’s groups working to encourage positive change.
The Commissioner’s office is supporting a Cornwall-based steering group, which brings together:
- The former High Sheriff of Cornwall
- Devon & Cornwall Police (Cornwall Command)
- Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner
- Cornwall Council
- Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum
- Barnardo’s
- First Light
- The Women’s Centre Cornwall
- WCWA
This group is developing a structured approach to male allyship and mentorship. The focus is on building momentum, strengthening skills, and establishing sustainable programmes, including men’s groups that provide safe, constructive spaces for discussion, reflection, and accountability.
The intention is to support men to challenge harmful behaviours, address personal attitudes, and act as visible allies in their communities. This includes creating opportunities for men to speak openly, take responsibility, and contribute to improving the safety of women and girls.
This work will engage a broad range of partners, including influential individuals, organisations with strong male participation such as sports clubs, schools and youth settings, and existing men’s groups already active in this area.
A key aim is to reach beyond those already working in the domestic abuse sector, encouraging wider participation in changing attitudes and behaviours.
Progress and learning from this work will be highlighted during the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence, which runs annually from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day). This period brings together individuals, organisations and communities to raise awareness and promote action to end violence.
The programme is supported by £50,000 from the Police and Crime Commissioner and a further £50,000 from proceeds of crime funding allocated by the Chief Constable of Devon & Cornwall Police.
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Click on the sections below to find out more about the Disrupt project:
