The council and our partners are working together to help end violence against women and girls and support those who have experienced abuse.
The United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, runs between 25 November, which is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and 10 December, which is Human Rights Day. The campaign calls for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
The council is marking the 16 Days with a packed programme of events which aim to raise awareness of the different types of violence against women and girls, including domestic violence, forced marriage and sexual abuse. We are also highlighting the many sources of support available for those who are experiencing or who have survived violence.
Today, Monday 25 November, is also White Ribbon Day, which is a campaign to end men’s violence against women. The council has been a White Ribbon accredited organisation for two years, which underlines the commitment of councillors and staff to eradicating violence against women and girls. Women can make the promise to become a White Ribbon Champions and men can become ambassadors by making the promise not to use, excuse or remain silent about violence against women and girls by becoming White Ribbon Ambassadors at www.whiteribbon.org.uk
The London Borough of Merton’s Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, Councillor Edith Macauley MBE, said: “The council is proud to be a White Ribbon accredited organisation. This year’s theme for White Ribbon Day is It starts with men, which underlines the need for men to reflect on what actions they can take to help women to feel safe.
“These 16 Days are an opportunity for everyone to work together to renew our efforts to end violence against women and girls and highlight the support available for those who have experienced abuse.”
For more information about the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and White Ribbon Day, visit: www.merton.gov.uk/16days
Merton has a confidential One Stop Shop – a drop-in service for people experiencing domestic abuse. It is held every Monday between 9.30am -12pm (except on bank holidays) at Morden Baptist Church, Crown Lane, Morden, SM4 5BL. For further details, call 020 7801 1777.