Western Isles Violence Against Women Partnership campaign to ‘Imagine a Scotland Without Gender-Based Violence’

NHS Western Isles, along with other local agencies are taking part in the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.  

The Western Isles Violence Against Women (VAW) Partnership seeks to reduce and prevent incidents of gender-based violence through effective co-operation between the private, public, and voluntary sectors in the provision of high-quality appropriate services and the protection of adults and children, affected by or at risk of suffering relationship violence and abuse. 

Support is available by contacting Western Isles Violence Against Women Partnership on 01851704750 or 07391212340 or by visiting www.westernisleswomensaid.co.uk and www.wircc.co.uk. 

1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence, mostly by an intimate partner. Intimate partner violence alone accounts for 27% of all homicides of women and girls. The 16 days of activism is a global movement to raise awareness and take action against gender-based violence.   

The campaign runs from 25^th November – 10^th December. We will be sharing key messages on all our social media pages for the duration of the campaign. During that time, some public buildings across the Western Isles will be lighting up purple to help raise awareness of the campaign.   

Members of the local community have been busy making pledges towards tackling violence against women and girls in Scotland, you’ll be able to see who has made a pledge to tackle violence against women and girls across different social media pages during the 16 days.  

During the 16 Days of Activism, the partnership is encouraging everyone to learn more about gender-based violence and its impact on individuals and communities, to speak out against gender-based violence and challenge harmful gender norms, and to support survivors of gender-based violence and organisations working to end violence against women. 

Dorothy Macdonald, Chair of Western Isles Violence Against Women Partnership and Lead Nurse Public Protection, NHS Western Isles, said “We believe that everyone has the right to live free from violence, regardless of their gender. We call on individuals, governments, and organisations to join us in making a stand against gender-based violence.” 

“Together, we can imagine a world where all women and girls are safe and respected. Western Isles Violence Against Women Partnership is dedicated to ending gender-based violence in the Western Isles. Our members provide support, advocate for policy change, and educate the public about gender-based violence.” 

For more information and link to support visit: https://www.saferouterhebrides.com/index.php/categories/domestic-abuse-and-gbv