(Image: West Yorkshire Police)
POLICE in West Yorkshire are deploying plain-clothed officers on the streets to prevent sexual offences before they happen.
The scheme, called Project Vigilant, is a proactive policing initiative launched by West Yorkshire Police in partnership with the Mayor’s Women’s Safety Unit and funded by the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership.
It aims to prevent sexual violence by identifying and disrupting concerning behaviour before a crime is committed.
Superintendent Phil Coward, West Yorkshire Police's lead for violence against women and girls (VAWG), said: "Everyone has the right to feel safe when enjoying a night out or travelling through our towns and cities.
"Project Vigilant is about preventing harm before it happens.
"By identifying concerning behaviour early and intervening where necessary, we can help protect potential victims, disrupt offenders and create safer environments for everyone."
The force is taking a partnership-led approach, working with local authorities, businesses, licensed premises, transport providers and other organisations.
Together, they aim to improve public safety by spotting and addressing harmful behaviours before they escalate.
The initiative is part of West Yorkshire Police’s broader commitment to tackling violence against women and girls.
In the past 12 months, 80 per cent of sexual assault victims in West Yorkshire were women, and 91 per cent of offenders were male.
As part of the scheme, specially trained plain-clothed and uniformed officers are being deployed in busy town and city centre locations across the region.
They look for warning signs that someone may be targeting or harassing others, allowing for early intervention.
Frontline workers, including bar staff, door supervisors and public transport employees, have also received training to recognise predatory behaviour.
This can include following individuals, making inappropriate sexual comments or attempting to isolate someone who appears vulnerable.
In its first four weeks, Project Vigilant led to more than 30 interventions, helping to disrupt harmful behaviour and safeguard those at risk.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: "We are committed to ensuring the safety of women and girls here in West Yorkshire.
"Predatory behaviours, negative attitudes and misogyny will not be tolerated, and by working together, we can make sure it is called out when and where it occurs.
"Everybody deserves an environment where they we can thrive without fear or having to look over their shoulders.
"This work will provide that added confidence and assurance."
Members of the public are encouraged to report any behaviour that causes concern or makes them feel uncomfortable.