Women experiencing domestic abuse are reminded that help is available – wherever you live
Posted on 23 Nov 2023
North Ayrshire Council and community planning partners have launched their annual strategy as part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
The campaign runs from November 25, which is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (also known as White Ribbon Day) to Human Rights Day on December 10.
And we can all play a part, no matter how small, to create positive change.
Everyone is being asked to take a moment and “Imagine a Scotland without Gender-Based Violence” – whether this is in relation to children and young people, our workplace environment or education.
The National Violence Against Women Network hopes this year we can all contribute to making things better and #ChangeThe Story so that women and girls can live their lives free from the fear of violence.
Violence comes in many shapes and forms, including coercive behaviour and demeaning language, through to physical violence resulting in death.
Small changes can help make a big difference, and men can play their part by calling out behaviour like sexist jokes and harassment on public transport - so they are not seen as being acceptable and “the norm”.
North Ayrshire Council has, over the years, been a vocal supporter of 16 Days of Action and Provost Anthea Dickson said: “It is vital that people know there is support available, whether you live in a big town, a small village or a close-knit village community.
“Women and girls, regardless of their background or where they live, can feel isolated and restricted when it comes to getting help and advice.
“We need to make sure women and girls know how to access services and empower them to ask for help where there is a risk of domestic violence.”
The North Ayrshire Violence Against Women Partnership brings together partners that have a role in tackling gender-based violence and supporting those who are affected.
It includes the Council and representatives from partner organisations including North Ayrshire Women's Aid, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
The aims of the Partnership are to:
• Raise awareness of issues around violence against women and girls
• Empower communities to challenge abusive and violent behaviour
• Provide information on the available support services available and
• Encourage support of the key VAWP campaign – White Ribbon 16 Days of Action.
Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, is backing this year’s 16 Days of Action.
He said: “Any act of violence against women and girls is heinous. We all have a role – and a responsibility - to play in ensuring it is seen as being unacceptable. I would encourage as many people as possible to show their support for this campaign.”
The North Ayrshire VAWP has two events coming up as part of the campaign.
These are:
- Hystayria Film Showing - A thought-provoking short film based on real stories of Ayr’s barbaric Witch trials.
The Ayr North Time Team, a group of local historians, teamed up with local film and theatre company The Iris, to transform their findings on the Ayr Witch trials into a theatre production to showcase to the community.
We invite you to the Harbour Arts Centre on Thursday, November 30 at 6pm for a viewing of this powerful film, followed by a Q&A session with the cast and crew to generate thought-provoking and impactful discussion regarding violence against women.
This is a ticketed event with limited spaces. If you would like to attend please book your ticket on ticket source at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/north-ayrshire-council/t-gadpgvr
The annual ‘Reclaim the Night’ walk will take place this year on Tuesday, December 5. This year the walk will take place in Saltcoats, leaving from the Women’s Aid Hub (Vernon Street) at 5.15pm and will return to the hub for soup, rolls, tea, coffee and cake.