BORDERERS are being asked to play their part in helping to tackle violence against women during the #16DaysofAction against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
This year's campaign takes place between Saturday November 25 and Sunday December 10.
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The #16DaysofAction is a world-wide movement, founded in 1991 by the Women’s Global Leadership Institute, which begins on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs until International Human Rights Day.
In Scotland, it remains the case that women and girls are still overall disproportionately affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence and other forms of violence, mainly committed against them by men.
Men are also victims of domestic abuse, but at least four out of five incidents recorded by police have a female victim and a male accused.
Women also report feeling eight times more likely to worry about being sexually assaulted and the victim of a crime generally, which makes them less likely to access places and participate in their communities.
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Councillor Julie Pirone, Executive Member for Community and Culture said: “The need for us to show our support for the #16DaysofAction campaign sadly remains as vitally important as ever.
“Gender based violence against women and children continues to be experienced across our communities, with demand for specialist services remaining high.
“We’re also acutely aware that the ongoing cost of living crisis disproportionately affects women at risk, who already face greater economic inequality and poverty.
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“I would urge us all to take responsibility, both individually and collectively, to do whatever we can to show our support.
“From taking part in a march to finding ways to make sure we’re far better informed about the impact of the issue in our local communities, every and any action helps.
“What’s absolutely critical though is that we all take a closer look at our own behaviour and attitudes - or those around us - and if we see there are changes we could commit to making happen.
“I would also like to remind anyone who is experiencing domestic abuse that they are not alone. There are people you can talk to. If you reach out, you can be sure there will be someone there to listen with the advice, information and help you need.
“Anyone can report domestic abuse or suspected abuse to the police, if you are worried about a family member or friend.
“There’s more information on the Council’s website or you can contact our Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support Service directly. You can also phone the National Domestic Helpline: 0800 027 1234 (available 24-hours a day) and in an emergency, call 999.”
The Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support Service (DAAS) provides support for any adult who has experienced or is experiencing domestic abuse in the Scottish Borders.
The service is free and confidential and provides a range of support that can help people to recover from the impact of living with domestic abuse, including working with survivors to improve safety, reduce the risk of further harm and find the best solutions to stay safe.
More information is available on the DAAS pages of SBC’s website.
The team can also be contacted on 01835 825024 or at: daas@scotborders.gov.uk
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