#16daysofaction against gender based violence is an international campaign to raise awareness of violence against women. It runs from 25 November – 10 December.
During the campaign, organisations throughout Argyll and Bute will be giving out a clear message that domestic abuse will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Key landmarks, such as McCaig’s Tower and Highland Mary’s Statue will be lit up orange, in honour of the theme: “Orange the World: Generation equality stands against rape”.
Events, workshops, marches and training sessions are planned to provide information, challenge attitudes and promote change.
Argyll and Bute Rape Crisis will lead off the week with a march against gender based violence on Monday 25 November, which leaves the Queen’s Hall, Dunoon, at 6.00pm.
Police Scotland, and more locally Argyll and Bute Sub Division, will have daily Twitter posts pointing to messages and events linked to #16daysofaction. Police Scotland Youth Engagement Officers will support events planned in schools.
The police will also assist partners with events including the Women's Aid Domestic Abuse Seminar at Cowal Hospital, on 10 December. Places can be booked on this website.
Other Women’s Aid Argyll and Bute events include welcoming service providers to visit its offices in Campbeltown, on 4 December, and Dunoon, on 5 December. It’s a chance to meet staff, find out more about the work that goes on, share ideas and see a display of survivors’ art work. Form more information, email: info@abwa.org.uk
Nationally, Women’s Aid has set out priorities for the draft legislation for the forthcoming domestic abuse bill. It has released a Bill for Survivors based on the needs of survivors and Women’s Aid member services.
Domestic abuse affects people from all backgrounds, ages or level of education. It happens throughout the year, which is why the council provides detailed information on its website on where to find information and support.
Zero Tolerance has produced a short video, It’s time for prevention, explaining how gender based discrimination can lead to gender based violence.
This campaign focuses on male violence against women. It is however recognised that men can also face many of these issues, as can people in same sex relationships. Argyll and Bute Council provides services to all people suffering from domestic abuse.