Havant MP Alan Mak showed his support for White Ribbon Day on Friday (25 November 2016), getting behind the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
On the day, men and boys are urged to wear a white ribbon as visible pledges never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
From 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign is a time to galvanise action to end violence against women and girls around the world
Mr Mak said: “I’m backing the campaign to speak out against domestic violence. The Southern Domestic Abuse Service is doing a superb job locally in working and caring with women. I’ll continue to help them in their efforts to get more funding. Thank you to everyone who has got behind White Ribbon Day, together we can help end violence towards women.”
Havant-based charity Southern Domestic Abuse Service (SDAS) is using the day to launch a social media campaign against gender violence.
This campaign features survivors, colleagues in other organisations that work with SDAS, MPs, including Mr Mak, and local celebrity Fred Dinenage. You can follow this campaign on facebook.com/southerndas and/or twitter.com/southerndas.
Southern Domestic Abuse Service are also holding events promoting their services for those affected by domestic abuse across South East Hampshire for local residents at Havant Plaza, Gosport Discovery Centre, Portchester Community Action, Portsmouth Deaf Centre and Radian Housing.
Claire Lambon, SDAS Chief Executive, said: “Men and women should be empowered to discuss the issues of violence, exploitation, and abuse. We can, and must, create an environment where gender-based violence is unacceptable.
“Domestic abuse is the biggest social issue affecting women in the country today - it is an issue which not only takes lives but ruins lives in great number. Women and children should not live in fear of violence and abuse.
There can be no doubt that domestic abuse is a significant factor in our society. Southern Domestic Abuse Service’s priority is to continue to provide comprehensive and responsive services to meet the needs of women, children, young people and men experiencing domestic abuse.”
Southern Domestic Abuse Service provides services to women, children, young people and men that have experienced or are experiencing of domestic abuse. If you need help, advice or support please contact them on 023 92 480 246, [email protected] or www.southerndas.org
Picture: Alan Mak showing his support for White Ribbon Day