19 Nov 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
This year, the International 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence runs from 25 November (White Ribbon Day) to 10 December (Human Rights Day) 2024. First established in 1991, the annual campaign raises awareness and encourages investment in solutions to eliminate violence against women and girls. It is a call to action for governments, businesses and individuals, and there are several ways Hammersmith’s local community can get involved.
1) Hammersmith BID: Women’s Safety Forum
At Hammersmith BID, we collaborate with businesses and other key stakeholders, including Hammersmith & Fulham Council, Safer Business Network and WalkSafe, to create a safer environment for women and girls. One example is through our quarterly Women’s Safety Forum.
During each Forum, local businesses receive an update on what is happening locally to enhance the safety of women and girls. These Forums also allow businesses to raise any issues and work together to suggest potential policy or infrastructural changes that could be implemented to enhance safety, from workplace handbook updates to local street lighting projects.
Please reach out via email if you are interested in attending our next Women’s Safety Forum.
2) PSPO
Further supporting 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, we are pleased to share that Hammersmith & Fulham Council has launched its No More Sexual Harassment campaign. The public space protection order (PSPO), launched in September 2024, makes street harassment an offence punishable with a fine of up to £1,000. The PSPO prohibits a range of unwanted behaviours including catcalling, sexualised comments and non-consensual physical contact.
You can find more information about H&F Council’s No More Sexual Harassment campaign and the new PSPO here.
3) Suzy Lamplugh Trust: Stand Up Against Harassment, Bystander Training
Individuals can also help create a safer environment in Hammersmith by taking part in the regular Bystander Training sessions run by The Suzy Lamplugh Trust (SLT), who have partnered with L’Oréal Paris to deliver “Stand Up Against Street Harassment” training. The programme drives awareness of harassment by upskilling and empowering people to defuse situations, discourage harassers and support victims across various settings, such as schools, public transport, festivals and workplaces.
Please find a list of the free upcoming sessions below:
4) Advance
As part of their campaign for 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, Advance are delivering a series of webinars about the intersection between domestic abuse and women’s involvement in the criminal justice system. These FREE webinars offer professionals and academics with the opportunity to gain insight into the complexities of domestic abuse.
5) Social Media Support
Using the #NoExcuse and #16Days hashtags to promote events and support the campaign online, can help demonstrate a united movement. Doing so can raise awareness and encourage governments and organisations to adopt policies that support the elimination of gender-based violence.
Additional Information
If you have any questions or relevant events, you’d like us to promote to Hammersmith’s employee and resident community, please reach out via email.