Merton Council is continuing its longstanding support of the international campaign against domestic violence and sexual assault.
Leader of Merton Council Cllr Stephen Alambritis and Deputy Mayor Cllr Judy Saunders with councillors, partners and officers supporting the international campaign against domestic violence and sexual assault
Joining forces with Merton police, the London Fire Brigade and partners, the council hosted a flag raising ceremony today (Monday 27 November). The special Merton says No More flag will be flying from outside the civic centre for the 16 days of the campaign.
2016 saw the council team up with London-based Hestia, the UK Says No More charity, to raise awareness of domestic violence and abuse and sexual violence. In that same year, Merton was the first London council to launch the Ask Angela initiative to provide a safe way for women to get the help they need if they feel threatened while on a night out in the borough.
In line with the international No More campaign, the 16 days against violence and abuse and sexual assault will run from 25 November until 10 December. Its goal it to shine a spotlight on issues including not only domestic violence, but also child sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation and forced marriage. It also signposts people who may need help, to organisations that can support them.
“UK says No More” flag flying over the civic centre in Morden
Merton’s own One Stop Shop has helped over 1,500 people since it was set up seven years ago. It is a confidential service which offers drop-in sessions on Mondays (except Bank Holidays) from 9.30am to midday at Morden Baptist Church in Crown Lane, Morden.
Merton Council cabinet member for children’s services and council representative for action against domestic violence and abuse, Councillor Katy Neep, said: “Merton is one of the safest boroughs in London and we work hard with our partner agencies including the Met Police to keep it that way. No one should stay silent about domestic violence and abuse. If you’re suffering or you think a friend or family member may need help, support is available through our free One Stop Shop, Victim Support or one of our excellent partner organisations.”
-ENDS-
Notes to editor
The council has a specially trained victim support and domestic violence advisers who can help those in need and can be contacted on 020 7801 1777. In an emergency, call 999.
About Hestia
They are a charity working with 9,000 vulnerable adults and children, to bring about positive changes in their lives at a time when they need it most.
For regular updates of Hestia’s work and the UK Says No More campaign, follow Hestia on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram
About UK Says No More
Facilitated by Hestia, the campaign involves a broad coalition of advocacy and service organisations, leading corporations, media companies and major advertising, branding, and design firms.
A signature pin will raise visibility, create awareness, encourage conversation, and help break the social stigma surrounding domestic violence and sexual assault.