News / Crime
Godwin: ‘We need to redouble our efforts to tackle violence against women and girls’
The mayor of the West of England says “we all need to redouble our efforts to tackle violence against women and girls across our society” following the news that her predecessor Dan Norris has been arrested for a second time.
Norris, who remains the MP for North East Somerset & Hanham, was rearrested on suspicion of rape, sexual assault, voyeurism and upskirting.
Specialist support is being offered to all staff at the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority as police investigations continue against their former boss.
In a statement on Monday, WECA mayor Helen Godwin said: “My thoughts are with everyone affected by today’s deeply upsetting further news.
“After a weekend of awful revelations in the Epstein papers, these latest allegations are a reminder that everyone – and in particular those in positions of power – must be robustly held to account where any offences are proven.
“Together, we all need to redouble our efforts to tackle violence against women and girls across our society.
“The combined authority and I are unable to comment on a specific, ongoing police investigation.”
Dan Norris was banned from WECA’s headquarters in Redcliffe following his arrest in April 2025 – photo: Martin Booth
Also on Monday, WECA’s chief executive Stephen Peacock sent a message to all staff within the organisation reiterating that “your wellbeing is our priority”.
In the note seen by Bristol24/7, Peacock wrote: “For any colleagues who feel impacted by the news or would like to speak to someone in confidence, our Employee Assistance Programme remains available 24/7 to all colleagues…
“Avon & Somerset Police are managing the investigation.
“Please be assured that any contact with the police will be taken extremely seriously and specialist support will be provided to anyone who reaches out via the online reporting tool, or by calling 101 and asking for Bluestone.”
Main photo: WECA
Read next: Dan Norris rearrested over more alleged serious sexual offences
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