Cheltenham to Launch 16-Day Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence

Activists will organize a 16-day series of events aimed at emphasizing the imperative to eradicate gender-based violence. Commencing November 25, Cheltenham Borough Council is backing the “16 Days of Action” campaign, which will see the color orange exhibited across the town to signify support for the initiative. Significant activities planned for the campaign period encompass training on exploitation and presentations by young women sharing their personal experiences. The 16-day period will culminate on November 29 with the Reclaim the Night walk, an event coordinated by the Gloucestershire Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre (GRASAC). Throughout the 16 days, the council intends to disseminate information regarding safety measures and resources for individuals affected by domestic abuse through its social media platforms. This campaign follows prior community consultations and the recent Purple Flag perception survey, which collected information concerning night-time establishments in Cheltenham and inquired about the sense of safety among women and girls within the locality. Rachel Hole, who serves as the service and training manager at GRASAC, noted that the Reclaim the Night movement originated in the 1970s, a time when women were counselled to remain indoors at night for their safety. “Almost 50 years later, we march each year to reclaim public spaces, stand up against male violence against women and girls, and demand safer streets for everyone,” she stated. Victoria Atherstone, the cabinet member responsible for safety and communities, commented that the campaign represents “a small timescale compared to the everyday struggles of women and girls in the UK undergoing gender-based violence.” She added, “We must continue to work together with businesses, the police, and residents alike to ensure that safety is a basic right for everyone in Cheltenham.” Those organizing the campaign aim to motivate individuals and businesses to wear orange attire, adorn windows, and participate in community-based activities. Training focused on exploitation, intended for parents and the wider community, is scheduled for November 28 within the council chambers. For updates, follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.