WE were delighted to help shine a light on the effect of domestic violence recently when we gained regional radio and newspaper coverage for a 16-day campaign to raise awareness of the plight of women and children.
The Haven Wolverhampton, an organisation set up to help women and children victims of domestic violence and homelessness, organised a series of events including a seminar, a silent vigil in the city centre and a ‘wear white’ at school/work day to highlight this often hidden issue.
The events have been planned to coincide with an international 16-day campaign that calls for the elimination of all forms of gender-based violence and runs to December 10.
The Haven Wolverhampton, which is supported by the city council, was established in 1973 and runs five hostels in Wolverhampton, as well as providing support services for women and children in the community. Through the involvement the local community, it is hoped to create a united voice having a far-reaching impact on vulnerable women.
Research and publicity assistant at The Haven Wolverhampton, Marianne Simmonds, said: “In the West Midlands alone, there were 40,188 victims of domestic violence during 2006-2007. This is mirrored in towns and cities across the UK, and in countries worldwide.
“It is an issue that needs to be addressed on a local, national and international level, but is a subject people often shy away from because of its sensitivity.
“With a show of solidarity during this 16-day period, in communities everywhere, we want to encourage governments to make changes that will significantly enhance the lives of women at risk.
“That’s why we want people to show their support at our events, by coming along to find out more about the subject of gender violence and what can be done to help.”
Schools and workplaces are being asked to designate a day during the 16-day campaign where pupils and employees can wear an item of white clothing, a reference to the white ribbon - the symbol for anti-violence against women, in return for a small donation to charities working for women’s rights.
People are invited to a silent vigil to mark the end of this year’s campaign, on Monday, December 10 at 5pm, in the Civic Centre Piazza, Wolverhampton. Everyone is welcome, and are asked to wear black as a sign of respect for these women killed by their partners.
Information about violence against women, and how to help, will be available to take away from the event. Staff from the Haven will also be on-hand to offer advice to anyone concerned about their own safety, or the safety of others.
The silent vigil is preceded by a women’s workshop at the Boot Factory in Cleveland Street, at 4pm, where the Wolverhampton Community Safety Group will be handing out safety advice and attack alarms to anyone attending. A ‘walking bus’ arranged by the ABCD Wardens will depart 4.30, picking up people at 4.45 from the bus station, and then proceeding to the Silent Vigil.
For further information on any of the planned activities, or to book a place at the seminar or workshop, call Marianne at The Haven on 01902 572 173 or email info@havenrefuge.org.uk. [Katie]
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