White Ribbon Day

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White Ribbon Day
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (25 November 2009

Wednesday November 25 was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, “White Ribbon Day”. Safe Newcastle marked this day with two awareness raising events.

Women were invited to St John’s Church Hall, Grainger Street, Newcastle , where they listened to guest speakers and received information and advice on the subject of Domestic Violence and support services.

On November 25 “White Ribbon Day”, Safe Newcastle’s Domestic Violence Team, Councillor Anita Lower, Chair of Safe Newcastle planted 104 snowdrop bulbs in Leazes Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne.  

Councillor Anita Lower Chair of Safe Newcastle stated “The 104 snowdrop bulbs will represent the 2 women that die every week directly from Domestic Violence. Snowdrops are known as a “symbol of hope” and we hope that by organising these two events we will be able to bring a subject that often remains behind closed doors into the public arena. If we can encourage victims and witnesses to speak out at the earliest possible time then we can work towards preventing this terrible crime.”

Domestic Violence Co-ordinator for Safe Newcastle, Lesley Storey said “Over 5000 domestic violence incidents were reported to Newcastle area police command last year. Domestic violence doesn’t just affect one type of person and it can take many forms, from physical and sexual violence to emotional or psychological abuse. We are committed to reduce these numbers and ensure victims become survivors.”

Safe Newcastle took this opportunity to publicise their Domestic Violence Directory. This is a practical resource providing comprehensive guidance and information for staff and volunteers working with domestic violence and abuse victims and survivors. It is intended to help staff signpost victims to appropriate practical help, advice and support in the city.

Newcastle City Council also launched their Domestic Violence Policy for staff and elected members.

Every employee of Newcastle City Council who is experiencing or has experienced domestic violence will have the right to raise the issue with their employer in the knowledge that the matter will be treated effectively, sympathetically and confidentially.

Newcastle City Council acknowledge that within the workforce, there are those who have experienced violence in their personal or professional lives and those who may be perpetrators of violence.

The policy also aims to support elected members and employees, in particular front line staff, who receive a disclosure of domestic violence from a member of the public or a service user, to give guidance and information on action they can take to help.

By adopting this policy, Newcastle City Council aims to:

• Reduce recurrence and prevent the incidence of domestic violence,
  
• Improve the safety and welfare of both adults and children who are affected,
  
• Increase awareness and understanding of the issue of domestic violence within all communities in Newcastle,
  
• Improve the Council’s response to domestic violence and increase the support it provides to break the cycle or prevent a violent situation intensifying,
  
• Provide a consistent and achievable policy framework within which the Council can work when supporting those experiencing or affected by domestic violence,
  
• Encourage multiagency working to ensure delivery of a seamless service to victims, survivors and their children.