This week (10th December) marked the end of the international 16-day campaign to eliminate violence against women and girls (#evawag). Domestic abuse services across Merseyside came together with the Merseyside PCC to hold a city centre candle lit vigil and community engagement events to raise awareness and remember the lost women of Liverpool.
As the campaign comes to an end, the South Liverpool Domestic Abuse Services (SLDAS) charity is urging the public to continue to shine a spotlight on domestic violence and expose predatory behavior in a bid to make women feel safe and supported during the festive season.
Rebecca Radcliffe, Director of SLDAS said “Domestic abuse is a national emergency that we can’t ignore. Christmas can often trigger domestic abuse due to extra family/finances pressures and increased drinking/drugs. The festive season shouldn’t be something to fear, and we all have a duty to keep our women and girls safe whether at home or out and about celebrating.”
Last year SLDAS supported more 1300 women and girls who experienced some form of domestic abuse in South Liverpool. Violence against women and girls includes domestic abuse, stalking, harassment, coercive control, tech abuse, honor-based abuse and harmful practices and other forms of violence that are rooted in gender inequality, so disproportionately impacting women and girls.
Rebecca added: “It’s really important that people are aware of potential warning signs or behaviors – especially when out partying. This includes girls and women being targeted by men and drinks being spiked in bars/parties. If you think something just isn’t right then please act, speak to a member of staff or call 111 if you are concerned.”
If you are concerned about a potential domestic abuse incident and need to speak with someone in confidence you can call SLDAS on 0151 494 1777, 0800 083 7114 and text 07593 549 004 or contact the national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247. Always call 999 in an emergency.