Croydon calls on community to support 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence

Croydon Council is urging the borough to come together from Monday 25 November, to mark the start of 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence.

Croydon is working to create a safer borough through its Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Delivery Plan 2024-2027, which details the council's commitment to working with partners to prevent violence, support victims, and pursue perpetrators.

During the national 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence, the council's Family Justice Service (FJS) and the Safer Croydon Partnership will provide a wide range of training to school staff, and partner organisations to learn how to spot, report and support those who experience abuse. The council is also working with Croydon schools to ensure they are safe spaces where any pupils or parents concerned about their safety can speak to staff for help.

Members of the community are invited to get involved by becoming a domestic abuse community ambassador, especially those from black and minority ethnic groups. The council is also inviting survivors to join its Expert by Experience Panel. This panel will be dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence and other types of violence against women and girls.

These new roles are crucial in shaping the council's services and ensuring we meet the needs of the community by listening to the voices of survivors. This values their lived experiences, combats domestic abuse and breaks the cycle of abuse.

The 16 Days of Action will run from 25 November, which is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, until Human Rights Day on 10 December.

As part of the campaign, Croydon will be distributing information with QR codes across the borough to help individuals facing domestic abuse, sexual violence, or other forms of violence against women and girls. This information will provide access to vital support services and other organisations that can help.

More information on how to get support from the FJS is available on the council website.

"In Croydon, we want all our residents to feel safe, so we are working to create a safer community. We also believe that every woman and girl should be able to live freely from violence and fear. This is why we want everyone to get involved in this great campaign.

"The awareness walk, on Monday 25 November, will get the 16 Days of Action off to a great start, with the Town Hall lit up in orange to show our support. It's just one of the positive actions we can take part in - there's a way for everyone to show their support. We want everyone to know that, wherever you are, help and advice is available."

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon