The government has announced a new national strategy to use advanced data analysis and algorithms to relentlessly target the most dangerous perpetrators of violence against women and girls (VAWG).

The initiative is part of the government's mission to reduce VAWG by 50 per cent within the next decade.

Police forces will use new data-driven tools to focus on the small number of offenders responsible for the highest levels of harm.

The tools use computer programmes to bring together and analyse a range of police data to identify and pursue offenders involved in domestic abuse, sexual assault, harassment, and stalking. They will be used alongside police officers’ expert judgment, will help law enforcement prioritise and pursue the most dangerous offenders, and therefore enable a more effective allocation of police resources.

Working closely with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), and the College of Policing, the home secretary will oversee the development of a new national approach to the use of the tools.

The technology will also assist in building risk profiles for both perpetrators and victims, enabling law enforcement and partner agencies to implement robust management plans that disrupt offenders’ behaviour and enhance victim safety.