London,
22
November
2011
|
23:00
Europe/London

Wear a White Ribbon and speak out against Domestic Violence in Hackney

Hackney Council will be supporting International White Ribbon Day on 25 November, by handing out white ribbons, and signposting residents to domestic violence support services available in the borough.

International White Ribbon Day campaigns for an end to violence towards women. Wearing a white ribbon or wristband on or around White Ribbon Day lets others know that you’re standing up against violence towards women. On 25 November, you can collect your white ribbon from Hackney Service Centre between 10am until 1pm, where the Council s Domestic Violence Team will be on hand to provide information on services and support available in the borough.

One in four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, and most of us at some point in our lives will know someone who lives in fear of a partner or ex-partner.

Councillor Sophie Linden, Deputy Mayor of Hackney, said: “It s vital that an effective support network is in place to help those suffering from domestic abuse, as well as providing advice about local services for friends and family members of victims. The Council is committed to tacking domestic violence and works with a number of partners to provide the very best services for those who suffer from it . We want people to know that when they are ready, we are here to help."

Detective Sergeant Jim Newcombe of Hackney’s Community Safety Unit adds: “We need to encourage victims of domestic abuse to speak out and understand they have nothing to fear in doing so. Violence in any form will not be tolerated in Hackney and we ensure that we deal with each case sensitively and are committed to prosecuting the perpetrators."

Services available in Hackney include a free Council helpline for one to one support, professional advice and a listening ear, and a Specialist Domestic Violence Court (SDVC). The SDVC, a partnership initiative between Tower Hamlets and Hackney Councils, runs every Thursday from Thames Magistrates’ Court in Bow, and makes sure that offenders are brought to justice more swiftly and effectively. It is supported by Hackney and Tower Hamlets Councils, the police, prosecutors, court staff, the probation service and specialist support services for victims.

Women can also find safe havens through support groups where they can talk, listen, think and plan. Many offer emergency accommodation for them and their children, and all of them offer confidential, one-to-one support that is sympathetic to their situation.

Visit Hackney Service Centre on 25 November between 10am – 1pm and show your support for White Ribbon Day.