A NEW website and free training programme aimed at helping prevent violence against women and girls has been launched in Cornwall.

Led by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and funded by Devon and Cornwall Police, the Male Ally Network is equipping people with the knowledge and confidence to recognise harmful behaviours, challenge them safely and help create safer environments for women and girls.

Launched in July at the Royal Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge, the initiative is supported by Geraint Richards, former High Sheriff of Cornwall, and partners including the Cornish Pirates.

Residents, workers and organisations across Cornwall can now access a range of free resources and training opportunities through the website. Initial training is being delivered by Cornwall-based trauma and therapy specialists CLEAR and funded by the OPCC. Participants can progress from their first training session to becoming a Male Ally Network Champion in just six hours.

Demand for the programme has already been strong, with the first training sessions fully booked and additional dates added due to demand. Interested parties can download the Male Ally Toolkit, accessing practical advice, guidance and actions to help create positive change.

Free two-hour online training sessions will take place on Tuesdays, October 20 and 27, from 6pm to 8pm. Once this has been completed, participants can attend face-to-face Champion

training in Truro’s Cathedral Lane on Thursdays, October 15 and 22, from 9am to 1pm.

Alexis Bowater OBE, project lead for the Male Ally Network, described it as “a growing movement for positive change”.

She added: "Many people want to be part of the solution but aren't always sure where to start. The Male Ally Network gives people the knowledge, skills and confidence to take that first step. You don't need to be an expert, just willing to learn."

People can book training, download the toolkit and find out more about the initiative by visiting www.maleallynetwork.org.uk/training-resources/cornwall