Ending violence against women and girls is everyone’s business: That’s the message from Safer Cornwall – Cornwall’s community safety partnership – as it urges people to stand up to violence against women and girls (VAWG).
After receiving funding from the Government’s Safer Streets Fund, Safer Cornwall has been working with students from Falmouth University on a campaign encouraging people to speak out when they witness inappropriate behaviour.
A series of posters featuring real-life examples of when people have safely stepped in to protect women and girls have been produced as part of the student-led ‘Not all heroes wear capes’ initiative.
Coinciding with the annual, international campaign 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, which starts on 25 November and runs until 10 December, the posters are currently on display across Falmouth, Truro and Penzance. They will also appear on some buses and social media. Find out more about what to do if you see inappropriate behaviour here.
“Young women should not feel threatened or intimidated when they go out at night. The campaign we are working on with the students moves the focus firmly away from victims of sexual harassment, abuse and assault. The burden shouldn’t fall on women to keep themselves safe, especially when going out at night.
“This work has been done by young people for young people and will create a lasting legacy to help increase women and girls’ feelings of safety in our public spaces.”
Councillor Carol Mould, portfolio holder for Neighbourhoods at Cornwall Council
More information about tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG), how to intervene safely and active bystander training is available here.