Articles
Gedling Borough Council supports national No More Week to prevent domestic abuse
Date Posted: 3:50 PM on Tue, 5 March 2024
Gedling Borough Council is actively supporting the national No More Week, a campaign aimed at raising awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence while inspiring individuals, organisations, and communities to instigate change.
The council has collaborated closely with partners Nottinghamshire Police as part of its ongoing safeguarding efforts, advocating for programmes designed to assist individuals experiencing domestic violence.
As part of a week-long initiative, the council is showcasing its collaborative efforts through the unveiling of a permanent stand at the council’s civic centre. This stand aims to raise awareness of the support available to those in need. The stand will feature information and links to support services provided by Juno Women’s Aid, Arnold Jobcentre DWP, ManKind, and others. Additionally, individuals can receive free keyrings equipped with a discreet QR code, providing direct access to the national helpline for domestic violence. Information cards and a wall of hope will also be on display, offering resources and encouragement.
Safeguarding, encompassing the protection of children, adults, and vulnerable individuals, is a core responsibility of Gedling Borough Council. This includes training opportunities for Councillors and council staff to recognise, understand and respond to signs of individuals in need, resulting in numerous referrals over the past year. The council has provided support for women affected by domestic violence through initiatives such as the ‘sanctuary scheme’. This scheme ensures the safety of women in their own homes by implementing cutting-edge technology including Ring doorbells, security lighting, reinforced doors, additional locks, and portable police alarms. The council is also working with Juno Women’s Aid to have a dedicated member of their team working at the council to offer support to people presenting themselves to the council, fleeing domestic violence.
Furthermore, the council is actively engaged with Nottinghamshire Police throughout the year, in supporting the Police and Crime Commissioner’s ‘Violence Against Women and Girls’ strategy as well as promoting ‘Ask for Angela’, a scheme designed to keep women safe on days and nights out. This collaborative effort aims to enhance partnerships with local authorities. Councillor Kathryn Fox, Portfolio Holder for Life Chances and Vulnerability, has set up regular meetings with Police Inspector Mark Stanley and Community Safety Officer Niki Pekal to explore ways to work together and raise awareness of these critical issues.
Councillor Kathryn Fox, Portfolio Holder for Life Chances and Vulnerability commented:
“As part of this significant week of action, we are committed to supporting the No More Week campaign by raising awareness of the support available through the local council. We hope that anyone visiting the civic centre, for any reason, will encounter the information board and realise that they are not alone; help is discreetly accessible. We are proud to collaborate with Nottinghamshire Police in supporting some of our most vulnerable residents, and we encourage anyone in need to reach out to us, the Police or support services like JUNO Women’s Aid and ManKind.”
For more information about No More Week, visit www.uksaysnomore.org. For additional details on safeguarding, please visit www.gedling.gov.uk. Information and advice on domestic violence can be found from all Gedling Borough Council Customer Services staff.