London,
25
November
2022
|
09:22
Europe/London

Camden marks white ribbon day and continues to take action to end violence against women and girls

Today Camden is marking White Ribbon Day - an international campaign to raise awareness about domestic abuse and the support available to those affected by it.

Camden is marking this day and the ‘16 days of action’ that follow with a campaign to reach women who are survivors of domestic abuse and their families and ensure they are aware of the support and help available through Camden Safety Net and other local organisations.

During the campaign, the council will also encourage men and boys to be part of the effort to end male violence against women and girls and send a clear message that violence and abuse is not acceptable in Camden.

Councillor Pat Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities

As a borough, we’re committed to doing everything we can to support survivors and to ensure all women and girls feel safe at home and on our streets. Each year, we mark White Ribbon Day to raise awareness of the support available and to call on our strong communities to work together and look out for one another so we can make Camden a safe place for all. 

Across council services, we’re working hard to tackle domestic violence and support those who have gone through it, but we know we must go further, especially as the cost-of-living crisis means there might be more pressures at home.

Domestic violence is an issue that disproportionately affects women and girls, but we know that anyone can be affected. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic abuse or violence, please reach out to our dedicated teams who can support you, from help from Camden Safety Net to mental health support and job and training support – please remember you are not alone.

Councillor Pat Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities

The Council is continuing to work with partners to prevent and tackle domestic abuse in Camden. A Violence Against Women and Girls Board, launched last year, brings together the police and community and voluntary organisations to hold each other to account and work together on a programme of action to continually improve the support available for survivors.

In March, Camden was one of the first local authorities in London to sign up to the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant (EDAC) to support women affected by abuse to enter or re-enter the workplace.

Camden also signed up to the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) to improve the support given by the Council’s housing teams to residents experiencing abuse.

A Camden Safety Hub has opened on Friday and Saturday evenings from 7pm to midnight at 1 Dockray Place for anyone who needs help, support, or someone to talk to during a night out. The safe space is part of the Council’s ongoing work to improve night-time safety for residents, especially for women and girls.  

How to access support

If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, call our advice service, Camden Safety Net on 020 7974 2526. To find out about the wide range of support available from across the Council, visit camden.gov.uk/domestic-violence.

  • If you are worried about a friend, family member or neighbour suffering domestic abuse, you can contact our dedicated officers at Camden Safety Net.
  • Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, race, culture or sexual orientation.
  • Our Camden Safety Net are here to help – call 020 7974 2526 or email [email protected], Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. You can also contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline who are open 24/7 on 0808 2000 247. In an emergency, always ring 999.

Get involved and show your support

Make a pledge

Add your name to our pledge and show your commitment to never commit, condone, or remain silent about domestic abuse. Visit camden.gov.uk/dv-pledge.

Support the Mayor’s nominated charity

Hopscotch Women’s Centre provides support services for women and girls on a wide range of issues including domestic violence, employment, and welfare benefits. They have a particular focus on supporting Black, Asian and Other Ethnic women.

Libraries

Libraries, as part of awareness raising, will also display a range of books on this subject as well as leaflets and posters detailing where help is available.