Hackney Council supports White Ribbon Day
Hackney Council is again supporting White Ribbon Day, a national campaign to raise awareness about domestic abuse and the services available to those affected by it.
The White Ribbon campaign was first initiated by a group of men in Canada and is now used to raise awareness of domestic violence around the world. The campaign encourages people to wear a white ribbon as a pledge never to commit, condone or remain in silence about violence against women and girls.
It launches on 25 November, coinciding with the International Day for the Eradication of Violence Against Women.
The Council’s domestic violence team will be hosting a stall in the Hackney Service Centre, where they will be handing out white ribbons, and offering advice and information about support services on offer in the borough.
The team worked with over 800 Hackney residents last year to offer confidential advice, counselling and practical support.
The domestic violence team work in partnership with organisations across the borough – including the police and charities – to support victims whatever their need, whether it is a place of refuge, reporting a crime to the police, or just someone to talk to.
Deputy Mayor of Hackney Cllr Sophie Linden said: Domestic violence is a terrible crime that can ruin the lives of victims and their families. It can be very difficult for people to tell others that they are suffering. We want victims of domestic violence to know that when they’re ready, we’re here for them. We work with partners to provide support for those who need it and that includes those who might be worried about a friend or family member.
Services available in Hackney include: a confidential helpline (free from a landline) for one-to-one support, professional advice, counselling, a Special Domestic Violence Court (a partnership between four neighbouring boroughs, which aims to make sure that offenders are brought to justice more effectively).
Contact the helpline on 0800 056 0905 / 020 8356 4459 or visit domestic violence support.