From Saturday 25 November to Sunday 10 December 2024, we’ll be joining the global community in observing the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This period, initiated by the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and culminating on Human Rights Day, serves as a pivotal moment to unite in our commitment to ending violence against women and girls worldwide.

The United Nations Secretary-General’s UNiTE by 2030 initiative underscores the urgency of global action to raise awareness, advocate for change, and share knowledge and innovations to eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls.

Gender-based violence is not confined to borders or cultures—it’s a pervasive global issue that affects 1 in 3 women worldwide. During humanitarian emergencies and when essential rights such as education, healthcare, or freedom of movement are curtailed, the risks escalate. This crisis impacts women of all backgrounds, but certain groups, including those with disabilities, adolescent girls, and older women, face additional barriers to having their voices heard and accessing support.

Violence’s health impacts can endure a lifetime, affecting physical, mental, sexual, and reproductive well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in addressing violence against women as a public health, gender equality, and human rights concern.

The systemic nature of gender-based violence demands a collective shift in narrative. Too often, victims are blamed or shamed, hindering their ability to seek support. It’s time to challenge misogyny, dispel myths surrounding violence, and ensure that every woman and girl can access the help they need.

Health workers, often the first point of contact for those experiencing violence, play a crucial role in providing compassionate care, including first-line support, medical examination, treatment, and referrals to essential services. This necessitates an ongoing investment in training and resources to ensure appropriate care.

What can you do

We all have a role to play in preventing violence against women and girls:

• If you’re experiencing violence:
  • Remember, you’re not alone, and it’s not your fault.
  • Reach out to people you trust such family, friends, neighbours for support.
  • Seek help from hotlines or specialist services if it’s safe to do so.
• If you know someone experiencing violence:
  • Be willing to listen without judgement.
  • Keep in touch, ensuring it’s safe for them to communicate.
  • Familiarise yourself with available services but provide information discreetly.
• For health and social care workers:
  • Listen with empathy, free from judgement.
  • Inquire about women’s needs and concerns.
  • Validate experiences and demonstrate an understanding.
  • Enhance safety and support connecting with additional services.

Let us stand together during these 16 Days of Activism, affirming our commitment to a world where violence against women and girls is a thing of the past. By acting collectively, we can create a safer and more equitable future for all.

Support services and useful resources

• MFT domestic violence and abuse staff intranet page – Use this page for information on how we can recognise and support patients experiencing domestic violence and abuse, 16 Days of Action resources, details of Lotus Hub and much more.
• MFT staff intranet safeguarding page – Use this page for safeguarding contacts and procedures (MFT deployed staff only)
• Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline – This free phone helpline for women and professionals is open Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. The number to call is 0161 636 7525.
• 24/7 National Helpline Number – 0808 2000 247 another free phone helping available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• The Domestic Violence and Abuse service – The Lotus Hub—is Greater Manchester’s new specialist service for ethnically minoritized women experiencing gender-based violence. They support women aged 18+ who’re at risk or affected by gender violence, including but not limited to domestic abuse, forced marriage, honour-based abuse, female genital mutilation, and domestic servitude. They also support women, regardless of their immigration status. The Lotus Hub also provides advice to professionals and can be contacted at info@lotushub.org.uk.
• Any man can be a victim of domestic abuse – a leaflet by our Children’s Community Safeguarding team that explains how men can be victims of DV too and what help, and support is available to them.
• End the Fear – Manchester’s multi-agency Domestic Abuse website which details services and information for people experiencing domestic abuse and for professionals.
• Respect Men’s Advice Line – open from Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 5:00pm. This free phone service is available to support male victims of domestic violence. The number to call is 0808 801 0327.
• Non-fatal strangulation Rapid Read – guidance for healthcare professionals on how to assess patients for signs of strangulation and what you should do if you suspect a case.
• Respect Phoneline – a free phone number (0808 802 040) that provides advice and support to domestic violence perpetrators. Their website also contains information for frontline professionals working with perpetrators.
• Manchester Women’s Aid – providing vital support to those experiencing domestic violence or abuse. They can be contacted on 0161 820 8414 or reached at info@manchesterwomensaid.org.
• Saheli Asian Women’s Project – a charitable organisation that provides a safe space and culturally sensitive support to women identifying as black, Asian, or minoritized facing violence in their lives.
• Trafford Domestic Abuse Service (TDAS) – offers support, guidance, and advice.
• Cover your tracks online – advice from Women’s Aid on how to delete browsing history and being tracked online.

This year, we are proud to align our efforts with White Ribbon Day, a UK initiative dedicated to ending male violence against women. White Ribbon Day, celebrated annually on November 25th, encourages men and boys to take a stand and pledge to never commit, excuse, or remain silent about violence against women.

To learn more about White Ribbon Day and how you can get involved, visit White Ribbon UK.