Partners in West Northants take stand against gender-based violence

The West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership (CSP) is calling on residents and local businesses to join forces during this year's 16 Days of Activism campaign to end violence against women and girls.

The campaign, which runs from 25 November to 10 December, will see a range of activities, take place across West Northants to support one of the world's largest campaigns focused on ending violence against women and girls. These efforts also aim to highlight local support services available to those who have experienced domestic abuse or sexual violence.

The campaign will kick off with a Reclaim the Night march, led by Northampton Rape Crisis, on Friday, 22 November at 6.45pm. Participants will gather at the Co-op car park on Barry Road, Northampton before marching along Wellingborough Road to All Saints Church, where a candlelit vigil will take place at approximately 7:10pm.

Throughout the 16 days, the CSP will distribute informational leaflets and posters across local venues, workplaces, and retailers in West Northamptonshire. Businesses are encouraged to display campaign stickers in their windows to show solidarity.

Additionally, pop-up support stands will be available, offering advice and resources from organisations such as Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service, Eve, Voice, Serenity, and Northamptonshire Rape Crisis. These stands will be set up at key locations across West Northants, see the full list on the WNC website.

Cllr David Smith, WNC's Cabinet Member Planning and Communities, said: "As a husband and a father of girls, this is very close to my heart; we must let our women and girls know they are not alone, and send a clear message to all perpetrators, whether male or female, that violence against women or girls, will not be tolerated.

"The 16 Days of Activism campaign is one way that we, alongside our partners, can empower victims to start their journey from victim to survivor. By raising awareness, we hope to encourage those affected to come forward, knowing there is support available for people here in West Northamptonshire."

Detective Chief Inspector Nickie Deeks, the lead for Violence Against Women and Girls at Northamptonshire Police said: "It's important we talk more openly about domestic abuse, sexual assaults, and harassment, which disproportionately affects women and girls. Sadly, most women have experienced some form of misogyny.

"Campaigns like this offer an opportunity to share information about the help available to victims in the county. And it's a chance for our communities to show their support, which in turn helps to challenge and change societal norms. There is absolutely no excuse for this type of behaviour, it needs to stop."

Throughout the campaign, information, advice, and resources will be shared on partners' social media channels. For more information on activities taking place and services available in the area, please visit the Council's website.