Yesterday saw the start of the UN System’s 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.
Running from 25 November to 10 December, organisations and individuals across the world will campaign against all forms of domestic abuse and highlight the support available.
Solihull Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Cllr Karen Grinsell, said: “We want to make it clear to everyone that despite Covid-19, if you are not safe at home, it is okay to leave. Advice, information, support and help is available for anyone who feels unsafe in their personal or family relationship and over the next couple of weeks we will highlight the impact of abuse and the support available to all.”
Over the next few weeks we will highlight different forms of abuse. Abuse is not limited to physical, it comes in many forms, including bullying, intimidation, threats, unwanted sexual activity, physical and online stalking and harassment.
If you are in an emergency situation and it is not safe to speak, you can use the Silent Solution System by calling 999 from a mobile telephone. You will hear an automated police message and can press 55 on your handset to be transferred to police call management. If you are concerned that someone is being abused or neglected, please raise it straight away. If someone is in immediate danger or you think a crime is being committed call the police on 999.
If you are scared at home, call the local helpline on 0808 800 0028 or the national helpline on 0808 200 0247 or visit - www.noexcuseforabuse.info
To follow the council’s campaign on Twitter, look out for the hashtags #EverybodysBusiness #16Days #drawingtheline