A series of events from November to December focused on tackling domestic abuse and supporting survivors.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that runs from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, until Human Rights Day on 10 December.
This year, Newham and our partners will hold 16 Days of Action, hosting a range of advice sessions, talks and workshops throughout the period aimed at both supporting survivors of domestic abuse directly and educating professionals on assisting clients who are affected.
The 16 Days begin on 25 November with the launch event for Newham’s Domestic Abuse Strategy. The 3-year strategy and action plan were approved by Newham’s Cabinet in June earlier this year. It was developed in consultation with survivors, residents and perpetrators, taking a borough-wide public health approach to preventing domestic abuse.
The Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, said: “Our new Domestic Abuse Strategy and Action Plan sets out what we are going to do to combat all forms of domestic abuse in Newham over the next 3 years because domestic violence against women and girls is at unacceptably high proportions in this country.
“In the twelve-month period to March this year, there were 6,758 domestic abuse incidents in our borough reported to the police, with only 4,292 classified as offences. In all these incidents, 73 percent of perpetrators were men.
“The stark reality and scale of domestic abuse in Newham is simply too much. 6,758 incidents too much, which is likely to be an underestimate of the scale occurring day-in-day-out in our borough. That number has to be reversed and domestic violence has to end.
“If you or someone you know is affected, or you suspect they may be affected, please look at what we have available and in get in touch. We’re here to help and we will believe you.”
Visit our webpage for more information on how to access support locally if you’re affected by domestic abuse.