Lambeth council will mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women tomorrow (25 November) by lighting the town hall in Brixton orange.
It will also aim to raise awareness about support in the borough for people suffering gender-based violence as well as standing in in solidarity with survivors all over the world.
The council will also support the United Nations international campaign by joining 16 days of activism.
The council said combatting gender-based violence is a priority for it – outlined in its Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.
Gender-based violence is defined as all forms of violence and abuse that disproportionally affect women and girls, but can also affect people of all genders.
This includes domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, “honour” based violence, human trafficking and modern slavery.
Cllr Jacqui Dyer, the council’s cabinet member for jobs, skills and community safety, said: “Raising awareness is particularly important at this time due to the devastating impact of coronavirus lockdown measures on survivors of gender-based violence.
“It’s essential that Lambeth residents know that is help is available and they are not alone”.
The council will release daily information on social media to highlight the help available to Lambeth residents.
It will be joining venues around the world in lighting the town hall orange in solidarity with survivors.
A full day of training, talks, films and activities on November 25 is being put on for Lambeth practitioners. Speakers include the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, Gaia Centre, Women in Prison, Galop, Fulfilling Lives, Spires, Africa Advocacy Foundation.
Lambeth residents can get free, confidential, non-judgmental, practical, and emotional support from the Gaia Centre, which is open during lockdown. Tel: 020 7733 8724, Email: lambethvawg@refuge.org.uk
People from outside Lambeth can get support in their area by contacting the National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247.
