NORTH Ayrshire Provost Anthea Dickson has voiced her support for a global campaign that works to end violence against women and girls.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign led annually by UN Women - the United Nations organisation dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women.

It runs from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (also known as White Ribbon Day), to Human Rights Day on December 10.

During this year’s campaign, everyone is being asked to “Imagine a Scotland without violence against women and girls”.

Provost Anthea DicksonProvost Anthea Dickson (Image: NAC) Provost Dickson said: “Women and girls should feel safe no matter where they are, and they should not live their lives in fear of violence.

“And it is vital that they know services are available, and how they can access these services.

"Violence comes in many shapes and forms, including coercive behaviour and demeaning language, and it can have various short and long-term effects that lead to extreme violence.

“It is vital that we don’t allow things like harassment directed at women and girls in the street as they go about their lives and hateful language become accepted.”

The North Ayrshire Violence Against Women Partnership brings together partners that have a role in tackling gender-based violence and supporting those who are affected.

It includes the council and representatives from partner organisations including North Ayrshire Women's Aid, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

The aims of the partnership are to:

  • Raise awareness of issues around violence against women and girls
  • Empower communities to challenge abusive and violent behaviour
  • Provide information on the available support services available and
  • Encourage support of the key VAWP campaign – White Ribbon 16 Days of Action.

If you are at risk of violence from someone at home, and may become homeless please phone the Council 24/7 on 0800 0196 500.

You can also contact North Ayrshire Women’s Aid, during office hours, on 01294 602 424 or call the national 24-hour helpline on 0800 027 1234.