Survivors of gun violence have initiated a program aimed at preventing individuals with a history of violence from possessing firearms

Survivors of gun violence perpetrated by abusive partners have collaborated with law enforcement to introduce an innovative program aimed at preventing individuals with a history of violence from obtaining firearms licenses.

These survivors have assisted police in developing a questionnaire, administered by firearms officers, which assesses partners’ potential for violence and mental health issues. This questionnaire has been integrated into a groundbreaking initiative known as Project Titanium, currently implemented by five police forces in England and Wales. Notably, licenses have already been denied or revoked under this scheme.

Project Titanium was spearheaded by Gwent Police in south Wales and subsequently adopted by the Metropolitan Police, Cambridgeshire Police, Bedfordshire Police, and Hertfordshire Police. Its inception and implementation have been greatly influenced by survivors Rhianon Bragg and Rachel Williams, who have both experienced gun-related violence at the hands of former partners.

Bragg, who endured a harrowing ordeal of being held hostage at gunpoint by her ex-partner, and Williams, who was shot by her former partner, have been pivotal in advocating for improved gun control measures. Their involvement in Project Titanium underscores the importance of incorporating partners’ perspectives in firearm licensing processes.

Project Titanium involves partners of license applicants responding to a series of 30 questions, addressing issues such as mental health, propensity for violence, and previous threats or use of weapons. The program has processed over 5,000 license applications since its inception, resulting in seven licenses being revoked or refused.

Bragg expressed her satisfaction with Project Titanium’s impact, highlighting its potential to save lives and prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. She emphasized the importance of empowering survivors to contribute to initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety.

Rachel Williams, whose conversation with a Gwent police firearms officer sparked the idea for Project Titanium, emphasized the program’s potential to save lives and enhance public safety.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council acknowledged the positive outcomes of Project Titanium, signaling a potential shift towards more proactive measures in assessing firearm license applications.

Overall, Project Titanium represents a significant step forward in prioritizing public safety and preventing gun violence, underscoring the importance of survivor-led initiatives in shaping policy and practice.