Events will be held in Carlisle aimed at raising awareness of sexual violence and the support services available to survivors.
The initiative, led by North West police and crime commissioners, police authorities, and sexual assault and abuse services, will take place from November 8-14.
Each day throughout the week a county will be hosting their own dedicated event/activity to raise awareness within their communities. These range from art installations from university students to moments of reflection in the form of vigils, all of which aim to engage local communities and promote the support available to survivors of sexual violence.
The following Carlisle events will take place on Monday:
- A private reflection at the University of Cumbria’s Fusehill Street campus between 9.30am and 10.30am
- A vigil led by the university’s chaplaincy team between 11am and 11.30am
- A selection of stalls on display from representatives from local services and community groups between 11.30am and 4pm.
Rebecca Williams, project lead, said: “This week we are encouraging people across the North West to talk openly about sexual violence and their experiences, whether that be to a friend, family or one of the specialist organisations.
“Sexual violence can happen to anyone at any time and anywhere. You are not alone.
“Previously, finding a local specialist service may have been difficult or overwhelming due to the vast amount of information online. Working with survivors and local organisations, we have launched a new website https://sexualviolencesupport.co.uk/ that will help you find the service that is right for you.
“In addition, we have created support packs which provide explanations of what sexual violence is, how you can seek help, how you can support others and a simplified guide on report to court.”
According to the World Health Organisation, one in three women endure physical or sexual violence and one in four adolescent girls ages 15-19 who have had a relationship have been subjected to either physical or sexual violence.
But it is not just females who are victims. About 12,000 men (aged 16-59) are raped in the UK every year and more than 70,000 are sexually abused or assaulted.
If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual violence you can contact the police direct on 101, or in an emergency call 999.
If you do not wish to contact the police, you can self-refer to a specialist organisation directly. To find your local organisation, visit https://sexualviolencesupport.co.uk/
To join in with the campaign or find out more information, visit https://sexualviolencesupport.co.uk/campaigns/nwsvweek/ or email [email protected]
