Deputy PCC, Umme Ali, celebrates successful HerSpace event for women’s organisations, community groups and statutory professionals across Bedfordshire

Following the successful launch of HerSpace Bedfordshire in March 2026, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire, Umme Ali, today welcomed organisations, community groups and statutory professionals from across the county to the Addison Centre in Kempston, to network, collaborate and discuss future opportunities to support women and girls including those who have been impacted by abuse. 

Established by the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, HerSpace Bedfordshire was created to bring together organisations that support women across the county, providing opportunities to connect, share knowledge, showcase services, amplify community voices and build meaningful partnerships. The network was developed in response to a recognised need for greater collaboration and visibility across the women's sector, particularly for smaller and emerging organisations whose vital work can often go unrecognised. 

Today’s HerSpace event, focusing on showcasing organisations and generating rich conversations through expert panels, continued to strengthen collaboration, improve the visibility of services and promote a more coordinated approach to meeting the needs of women across Bedfordshire.  The HerSpace event highlighted grassroots and "by and for" organisations, recognising the unique expertise, lived experience and trusted relationships these groups hold within their communities, and the experience and expertise demonstrate when providing support to those affected by abuse. 

Commenting on the event, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Umme Ali said: "It was a fantastic opportunity to speak with so many inspiring people, projects and organisations dedicated to supporting women and families. 

"The three expert panel discussions provided a brilliant platform for engagement, and I thank everyone who contributed such impactful insights. 

"As we continue to grow the HerSpace network, I am proud of our community and the inspirational women within for their commitment to creating a safer and fairer Bedfordshire for women and young people." 

Today's discussions highlighted the importance of creating opportunities that enable women to thrive, from access to employment, skills development and training, to achieving long-term economic empowerment and independence. Through the insights shared across all three panels, we explored the barriers many women face and the practical, collaborative solutions that can help overcome them. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all speakers, panellists and contributors for sharing their expertise, experiences and commitment to supporting women across Bedfordshire and beyond.  

Special thanks go to Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation (BLCF), WiSE UK, and all partner organisations who contributed to the event, including CID Bedfordshire Police, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, iLearn Bedfordshire, Restitute, Capa First Response, Bako Sanctuary CIC, Link to Change, Hope Works, Ebonista and the many organisations working together to create safer, fairer and more inclusive opportunities for women. Your collaboration, dedication and shared vision are helping to deliver meaningful change and stronger futures for the communities we serve. 

HerSpace Bedfordshire will continue to grow as a space for partnership working, shared learning and community engagement, helping to build a more responsive and joined-up network of support for women and victims across the county.