News / domestic violence
Charities to hold candlelit vigil against domestic abuse
On Thursday November 22, Next Link Domestic Abuse Services, who support victims of domestic abuse, and SAFE Link Sexual Violence Services, who support victims of sexual violence, are holding a candlelit vigil and march in Bristol city centre.
This is part of a week of activities and demonstrations leading up to the United Nation’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on Sunday November 25. Organisers aim to highlight the number of women and children affected by domestic abuse and rape in the UK.
This year’s march will begin from Next Link’s headquarters in Queen Square
The procession will begin from Next Link’s headquarters, 5 Queen Square, at 4.30pm and will march College Green. There, at 5pm, two survivors of abuse will light candles to symbolise the two women who die each week through domestic abuse in this country.
is needed now More than ever
Carol Metters, chief executive of Next Link, said: “Two women die and one child loses its mother every week, in the UK as a result of domestic abuse. What is also deeply disturbing is that there will be nearly 5,000 recorded incidents of domestic abuse this year in Bristol and we know that this is just the tip of the iceberg as many women do not report it.”
There will also be a minute’s silence for those attending to pay their respects to people whose lives have affected by domestic abuse, rape and sexual assault. According to SAFE Link, one in five women in England and Wales aged between 16 and 59 experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetimes.
Deputy mayor Asher Craig is supporting the event
“There are no excuses for domestic abuse and no one has the right to control or abuse another person either physically or mentally,” said deputy mayor Asher Craig.
“We are fully committed to addressing domestic abuse and supporting anyone who has been affected by it. It is important that everyone knows that there is help available to them. It is not their fault, it should not be happening, and it is a crime.
“Domestic abuse is everyone’s responsibility and it happens in all communities. We need to work together to support people who have been abused and empower them to rebuild their lives.”
The procession starts at 4.30pm from Queen Square. Tea lights will be provided as part of the procession. If you need immediate support or more information about domestic abuse, call Next Link on 0117 9250680 or SAFE Link on 0333 3231543.
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