Violence Against Women and Girls Action Week: 8 - 12 July 2024
As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety and wellbeing of women and girls across the West End, from Monday 8 July until Friday 12 July we are running a week of action dedicated to tackling violence against women and girls.
The week will include a number of activities, from an information sharing webinar, to a West End walk and talk with the Metropolitan Police Service. More information on activities taking place can be found below, in addition to details of charities and organisations dedicated to promoting women's safety and supporting an end to violence against women and girls.
WEEK OF ACTION ACTIVITIES
Member visits with all-female New West End Company Security Unit - Monday 8 July
A dedicated all-female New West End Company Security unit will conduct member visits throughout the day, providing guidance to staff, and distributing leaflets with useful information on organisations that support Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) initiatives such as Refuge, the UK's largest domestic abuse organisation for women, the Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA), and Safe Haven, an organisation which provides a safe space for women in moments of vulnerability.
Read on below for more information on each of the above mentioned organisations, plus more.
Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Webinar - Tuesday 9 July
We will be hosting a webinar exploring the movement to end violence against women and girls and what is being done within the district to combat the issue. For the session we will be joined by the Metropolitan Police Service who will provide insights into the proactive measures being undertaken by the Metropolitan Police Service, along with the initiatives being implemented to address the issue and enhance women's safety throughout London.
Additionally, we will have Westminster City Council join us to discuss the council's Night Stars Campaign - a group of volunteers set up by Westminster City Council that are focused on working with the West End’s evening and night-time economy businesses to promote women’s safety and reduce violence against women and girls. Also joining the session are two charities - the Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA), a dedicated organisation supporting businesses of all sizes nationwide in taking effective action against domestic abuse through the exchange of information and best practices, and Advance, an organisation dedicated to supporting victims of domestic abuse. Both will share how businesses can actively engage in initiating conversations and providing vital support for employees.
The aims for the webinar are to:
- Raise Awareness: Increase understanding of VAWG and its impact on individuals and communities.
- Share Knowledge: Provide insights from experts on enforcement, community collaboration, and support mechanisms.
- Promote Collaboration: Encourage partnerships between law enforcement, local government, charities, and employers.
- Support Victims: Highlight available resources and strategies to support victims of VAWG effectively.
- Empower Action: Equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to take proactive steps in preventing and addressing VAWG in their communities and workplaces.
'Walk, Talk and Do' initiative with the Metropolitan Police Service - Wednesday 10 July
A unique collaboration with the Metropolitan Police Service, providing members with an opportunity to walk the West End with officers from the Metropolitan Police Service and share their views on the development of effective safety measures in our community for Women and Girls.
The walk offers the opportunity to discuss any concerns or suggestions members may have regarding the safety of women and girls within the district, including:
- Instances of harassment or unwanted attention in specific areas.
- Suggestions for improving lighting or security measures in certain locations.
- Personal safety concerns while commuting or working late hours.
- Ideas for community programs to support the safety and empowerment of women and girls.
If you would like to take part in the walk please contact akin.shodeinde@newwestend.com.
New West End Company Security Team Tabletop Exercise - Thursday 11 July
On Thursday 11 July, the New West End Company Security Team and partners at Westminster City Council and the Metropolitan Police Service, will take part in a tabletop exercise focussed on addressing violence against women and girls within the district.
Objectives of the exercise include improving communication, assessing response plans, fostering interagency collaboration, testing decision-making processes, and enhancing incident management skills specifically related to VAWG scenarios. The exercise will involve a realistic scenario, role-playing, and a comprehensive debrief and evaluation. Benefits of the tabletop exercise include increased preparedness, strengthened partnerships, and greater confidence among team members. This exercise is crucial for ensuring coordinated and effective responses, contributing to the safety of our community.
Metropolitan Police Service and New West End Company Security Team Joint Patrols in Mayfair - Friday 12 July
The Metropolitan Police Service and New West End Company Security Team will collaborate on joint patrols throughout the Mayfair area on Friday 11 July, specifically targeting businesses that operate within the night-time economy. This initiative is part of the broader Metropolitan Police Service, Operation Vigilant, which aims to enhance public safety and reduce crime during peak night-time hours. The patrols will cover a variety of establishments, including bars, restaurants, and hotels, which are often bustling with activity during the late hours.
A primary focus of these patrols is to address and prevent violence against women and girls. This initiative recognises the heightened risks that women and girls may face in nightlife settings, including harassment, assault, and other forms of violence. The joint efforts of the Metropolitan Police Service and New West End Company Security Team are designed to create a safer environment where women and girls can enjoy the night-time economy without fear.
Westminster City Council’s Night Stars will also be participating in these patrols. The Night Stars program is a community safety initiative that involves trained volunteers who support vulnerable individuals during night-time hours. They provide a reassuring presence, assist those who may be in distress, and work to prevent antisocial behaviour, with a particular focus on supporting women and girls.
For more information on the Violence Against Women and Girls Action Week and how your business can get involved, please contact akin.shodeinde@newwestend.com
CHARITIES AND ORGANISATIONS PROMOTING WOMEN'S SAFETY
Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime MOPAC
MOPAC is heavily involved in addressing VAWG in London. Their strategy includes a public health approach, focusing on preventing violence, supporting victims, and rebuilding trust in the police and criminal justice system. MOPAC funds services and collaborates with local authorities, the NHS, and the Crown Prosecution Service CPS to combat VAWG effectively.
End Violence Against Women Coalition EVAW
EVAW works to end all forms of violence against women and girls by advocating for effective policies and raising awareness about the impact of VAWG. They also provide support and resources for marginalized women, including those affected by retail and night-time crime.
Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse EIDA
EIDA helps employers address domestic abuse by providing resources and support to create safe workplaces. They engage in campaigns and offer guidance on how employers can support employees experiencing domestic abuse.
Solace Women's Aid
Solace provides support to women and children in London who are affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. They offer services like refuges, legal advice, and community-based support.
Find out more about Solace Women's Aid here.
Refuge
Refuge supports women and children experiencing domestic violence through various services, including emergency accommodation, community outreach, and a 24-hour helpline.
Women's Aid
Women's Aid works to end domestic violence against women and children by advocating for policy changes, raising public awareness, and providing training and resources.
Read more about Women's Aid here.
Victim Support
Victim Support provides free and confidential support to victims of crime, including domestic abuse. They offer emotional and practical assistance to help victims cope and recover.
Visit Victim Support's website here
Standing Together Against Domestic Violence
This organization coordinates efforts to improve responses to domestic violence through partnerships with various agencies, including the police, healthcare providers, and local councils.
Find out more about Standing Together Against Domestic Violence here.
Safe Haven
Safe Haven schemes in London provide safe spaces for people who feel threatened or at risk while out in public, particularly in retail and night-time environments. These are usually partnerships between local businesses, councils, and the police to offer immediate support and refuge for those in need.
Read more about Safe Haven here.
Respect
Respect works with male perpetrators of domestic violence to change their behaviour, as well as providing support for male victims of domestic abuse. Their programs aim to prevent violence and promote respectful relationships.
