Honour Based Violence Forum

21 June 2011, 06:00

Hertfordshire Police have held a special forum in Watford to discuss honour-based violence and forced marriages.

It's part of a series of events led by the County Community Safety Unit (CCSU) and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) which are being held across Hertfordshire to raise awareness of the sensitive issues.

The meetings are a chance for members of the community to speak out, have their voice heard and contribute to changing the attitudes of families and the community.

Nearly 100 incidents were reported in the area last year but police think many more were unreported.

Michelle Hargraves, honour based violence and forced marriages project worker at the CCSU says ''some victims may have language difficulties, they may not have access to computers and they may feel quite isolated. They might not be aware of the services that are available to them.''

A range of services and support for victims can be found at www.hertssunflower.org.uk or through 0845 33 00 222