Awareness campaign tackles domestic abuse 'epidemic'

Police forces across the west have been taking part in an international campaign to raise awareness of violence again women and girls (VAWM).

The 16 days of activism ran from from 25 November to 10 December, and saw high-visibility police patrols and community engagement events.

Charlotte Gibbons, manager of Swindon Paragon Integrated Domestic Abuse Service, said Christmas can often exacerbate domestic abuse due to "extra pressures" and increased drinking habits.

The initiative aims to "shine the spotlight" on domestic violence and expose predatory behaviour in a bid to make women feel safe and supported.

VAWG includes domestic abuse, stalking, harassment, coercive control, forced marriage and other forms of violence that are rooted in gender inequality, thus disproportionately impacting women and girls.

Det Ch Insp Lucy Thorne, from Wiltshire Police visited the Christmas market in Swindon to speak to members of the public about the ongoing issue.

It is part of a scheme which aims to encourage people to recognise and report concerning behaviour.

Ms Thorne said members of the public need to be more aware of the dangers in the lead up to the festive period, when people are likely to be out celebrating at night.

"We have to get men to be allies and to be understanding," she said.

"We have to get the public to appreciate that this is a societal issue that we can't fight alone. This is an epidemic. We need to listen and we need to act now."

Ms Thorne said it is important people are aware of potential warning signs, such as a sober man bundling an intoxicated woman into a taxi.

“My message is be vigilant, call us, and trust us," she said.

"What you could be telling us could be that final jigsaw to the puzzle that we need.

"It might be that person that you think 'something just isn’t right', who might be the person that’s committed several sexual offences over the county. Nothing is too little."

Elsewhere, in Bath, a twilight community walk was held on 25 November where participants wore orange to mark the international event.

Councillor Tim Ball said addressing violence against women and girls is "essential to building a safe and supportive community for everyone".

"The council is committed to tackling this important issue, and to effecting change at a societal level by supporting people away from future violence and working with women who have experienced abuse," Mr Ball said.

"Women need to feel heard and able to talk about what has happened to them without shame or silence," he added.

Other events were also held across the week, including educational workshops in colleges and universities, visits to licensed premises to distribute anti-spiking kits, and walk and talk sessions for women to share their experiences.