Swindon Borough Council mark 16 days of action against VAWG
It's part of an international campaign calling for an end to gender-based violence
Swindon Borough Council - and communities across the globe - are marking the end of 16 days of action against violence against women and girls.
It follows residents coming together at an event last month, in which local organisations, residents, and community leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the issue at the annual White Ribbon Day ceremony.
The event at Broadgreen Community Centre marked the start of the Council’s work to reflect the national 16 Days of Action.
These 16 days are an annual, international campaign which calls for an end to gender-based violence and the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
'The tip of the iceberg'
Cabinet member of Swindon Borough Council, Jim Grant, told Greatest Hits Radio: "There were 6,000 reported incidents of this kind to Wiltshire Police last year - but all of the evidence shows this is just the tip of the iceberg.
"That is largely what we are trying to tackle, but equally vital is making people aware of the White Ribbon Promise - which is not to excuse, use or remain silent about violence towards women and girls.
"In my time in the Wiltshire Police control room, I can say it's tremendously sad to hear the sense of helplessness these victims feel.
"At the council, our role is to help bringing together a united approach where we can challenge harmful behaviours, support survivors, and make Swindon a safer place for everybody."
People with lived experience attended the event, and shared their stories with the Council to inform its approach to helping residents affected by violence against women and girls.
One resident, who attended the event, said: “He would often lose his temper, then later blame his actions on the challenges he faced in the Army or his mental health struggles.
“For years, I felt trapped. When I tried to explain his behaviour to others, it was often brushed aside as a result of his PTSD or other issues, making me feel unheard and unsupported.
"Now, I share my story to help others understand that support is out there and that no one should have to face abuse alone.”
Last year in Swindon (2023/24), the Council worked with partners to tackle 1,140 incidents of violence against women and girls alongside 5,895 incidents of domestic abuse reported to Wiltshire Police.
With 662 reports of stalking and harassment and 586 reports of assaults against females in the community, the event highlighted the ongoing need for awareness and action to make the Borough a safe place for women and girls to live.
Public engagement events have been taking place for the past fortnight - highlighting opportunities to join consultation groups focused on the lived experiences of those who have suffered violence.
Councillor Janine Howarth, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “Domestic abuse and violence against women and girls are serious issues that demand a united response. White Ribbon Day reminds us all of the role we play in challenging harmful behaviours and supporting those affected.
“To anyone experiencing abuse, please know that you are not alone - help is available. By working together, we can create a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported.”
You can find out more about the White Ribbon Promise here.