DPFCC speaks up to end violence against women and girls

As part of our commitment to tackle violence against women and girls, we are proudly supporting #WhiteRibbonDay 2025, a global movement dedicated to ending violence against women and girls.

This year’s theme #WeSpeakUp encourages everyone – especially men - to use their voices and speak out against violence and inequality. It only takes one person to speak up, to call it out and to help break the cycle of abuse.

DPFCC Jane Gardner, Chair of Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board, said: “Every day, women and girls live with fear, trauma and the loss of freedom because of abuse. This is unacceptable.

“White Ribbon Day is a powerful reminder that silence allows abuse to continue. By speaking up, challenging harmful behaviours and supporting those affected, we can make a real difference. Every voice matters – and it starts with one person choosing to act.”

Reducing violence and against women and girls is a key priority in the Police and Crime Plan 2024 – 2028 and we are supporting a range of initiatives to help women and girls feel safer in their communities including:

• Working together with Community Safety Partnerships, creating spaces where people, especially women and girls, feel and are safer.
• Partnership engagement has been essential in tackling VAWG, with collaborative working leading to the development of several projects such as Project Minerva and the Essex County Council VAWG Mapping Programme.
• Funding and supporting specialist services for victims and survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence and other forms of VAWG. These services provide confidential advice, advocacy and practical support to help women and girls rebuild their lives.
• Working with schools, youth organisations, and community groups to deliver programmes that promoting healthy relationships, challenging harmful stereotypes and teaching young people about consent and respect.

Watch this short video to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/58OPmPIAjGQ

Join us in supporting #WhiteRibbonDay and #WeSpeakUp. Together, we can break the cycle of abuse.