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 tomorrow (Saturday), 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”.
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 in relation to 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.
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.”
In 2021 North Ayrshire Women’s Aid, in partnership with Fife Women’s Aid, commissioned a report called Far Flung Domestic Abuse in Rural Areas.
This study was a first for Scotland and focused on specific challenges and barriers women in rural areas face when accessing support for domestic abuse.
Women involved in the study said they felt stigmatised and judged, and felt everyone “knew their business” when they reached out for support.
Their abusers were often highly respected in their community, making the women feel like they would be doubted if they spoke up about their suffering.
Geographical isolation, a lack of transport links and pressure to keep their family unit together were among barriers to accessing services.
The women said more outreach services, opportunities to share their experiences with other women and a clearer definition of what is defined as abuse would be helpful.
Mary Beglan, chief officer at North Ayrshire Women’s Aid in Saltcoats, said: “We are aware of the challenges and barriers for women and girls in small, local communities and we do not underestimate these.
“The key message to anyone seeking support – whether emotional or practical – is that we are here for them regardless of where they live in North Ayrshire.
“Taking that first step is difficult – but when they are ready we will be ready to talk through all the available options. And nobody should ever feel ashamed to reach out.”
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.”
Sidebar – can we pop in box
If you are at risk of violence from someone at home, and may become homeless please phone the Council 24/7 on 0800 0196 500.
You can also contact North Ayrshire Women’s Aid, during office hours, on 01294 602 424 or call the national 24-hour helpline on 0800 027 1234.
The White Ribbon campaign is a worldwide movement that directly addresses men, ensuring they understand the scale of the problem and become part of the solution. You can sign the online pledge at www.whiteribbonscotland.org.uk
The 16 Days of Activism logo. NO_B47aid01_action_logo or NO_B47aid02_days_action
A supporter signs a pledge at the launch of the 16 Days of Activism campaign at the Brodick ferry terminal last year. 01_B47aid03_23_pledge_sign