Kent Police officers dedicated to combating violence against women and girls in Maidstone have launched an innovative partnership with a local horse-assisted learning charity, Team Tutsham Charitable Trust.
The new initiative, dubbed “Crime Cloppers,” aims to equip young girls with the knowledge and skills to identify signs of abuse and exploitation, and to build their confidence in handling challenging situations.
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The six-week course, based at Tutsham Farm in West Farleigh, will offer participants aged 10 to 17 weekly sessions that combine equine interaction with a targeted curriculum. Girls will have the opportunity to meet the charity’s horses, learn about their care, and even ride. Simultaneously, staff will guide them through topics including mental health and emotional resilience, empowerment, healthy relationships, personal safety and awareness, and drug risks.
PCSO Kirsty Greaves, who is spearheading the initiative alongside PCSO De Rose, emphasized the police’s commitment to addressing violence against women and girls.
“We hope that by educating young girls about potential risks and teaching them to identify dangerous and/or risky situations and behaviours, we can reduce their risk of being exploited and ultimately prevent them coming to harm,” she stated.
PCSO Greaves further highlighted the unique benefits of the collaboration with Team Tutsham.
“Our working partnership with Team Tutsham will allow skills to be developed through animal therapy sessions, during which the girls will be taught using visual aids and hands-on learning on the farm.”
The initiative also aims to improve victims’ support of police investigations by fostering trust and understanding.