THE Cheshire Harm Reduction Unit (HRU), a partnership between Cheshire Constabulary, Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP), Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, and other agencies, has been recognised nationally for its work protecting victims of stalking and harassment.

The award was presented at the National Centre for Violence Against Women and Girls and Public Protection (NCVPP) annual recognition event in January.

The HRU was named winner in the Collaborative Working Leading to Victim-Centred Investigations category. The unit is a specialist, award-winning service that combines police investigation with therapeutic and mental health support to protect victims and reduce reoffending.

Within the HRU, NHS staff provide specialist psychological and mental health expertise to support individuals who engage in stalking behaviour. Their work focuses on interventions to improve engagement, enhance health outcomes, and ultimately protect victims and their families.

Christina Bromfield, CWP Forensic Practitioner, said:- "Being part of the Harm Reduction Unit allows us to support both victims and those engaging in harmful behaviour, helping to break the cycle of violence. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our work making a real difference in people’s lives and contributing to such outstanding outcomes."

The HRU has transformed the policing response to stalking through a pioneering victim-centred model, shifting the burden from victims to perpetrators. Victims describe the service as “life-changing” and “life-saving,” reflecting a culture where safety and dignity are paramount.

Cheshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Carlos Brunes said:- "Working with partners including Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, and the Probation Service is crucial to this success. Protecting victims is at the forefront of everything the HRU does, and this award reflects the team’s dedication and impact."

Jess Phillips, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls, was a guest speaker at the event and added:- “A woman is killed by a man on average every 3 days in the UK. That’s why the work of the police is so vital to tackle abusers and protect victims from harm." 

If you have been impacted by stalking or harassment, support is available. You can contact Cheshire Constabulary on:- 101, the National Stalking Helpline at:- 0808 802 0300, or speak to your GP or local mental health services for advice and support.