Liberal Democrats strongly support the Bracknell Forest Women and Girl's Safety Charter

Violence against women and girls has no place in our borough. The launch of the Bracknell Forest Women’s Safety Charter marks an important step forward in making our public spaces, workplaces, schools, transport and community venues safer for everyone — and as the Chair of the Bracknell Forest Liberal Democrats I was proud to attend.

The Charter brings together the council and other public services, Thames Valley Police, local organisations, businesses and community groups in a shared commitment to protect women and girls from harassment, intimidation and violence. This is exactly the kind of practical, community‑focused action we should be taking, and we fully support it and the aims it seeks to address.

As Liberal Democrats, we believe women’s safety is not a party‑political issue. It is a basic responsibility of local leadership. That is why we stood alongside Labour and Green colleagues at the launch event to show united support for this work. It is disappointing that not all political groups chose to attend, but our priority remains clear — ensuring this Charter delivers real improvements for residents across Bracknell Forest.

We will continue to work constructively with partners, scrutinise progress, and encourage local organisations to sign up to the Charter. Every woman and girl in Bracknell Forest deserves to feel safe, respected and supported in our community, and we are committed to helping make that a reality.

Cllr Mike Forster  

Chair & Group Leader Bracknell Forest Liberal Democrats