In the wake of the tragic knife attack in Southport, The Haven Wolverhampton has joined Women’s Aid and 76 other member organisations in signing an urgent letter to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. This letter calls for immediate action to address not only this horrifying incident but also the broader epidemic of violence against women and girls (VAWG) across the country.
“The thoughts of everyone at Women’s Aid are with the families and friends of the girls targeted in the horrific attack in Southport on Monday. We need to recognise that this is not an isolated attack but instead another one in the epidemic of violence against women and girls that this country has long experienced. The misogyny and hatred that allows for male-violence to exist must be dismantled, so that women and girls can live safely away from fear. We’ve waited for change long enough – it is time for the government to act.”- Farah Nazeer, Chief Executive of Women’s Aid
Click here to read the letter and list of signatories in full.
At The Haven Wolverhampton, our mission has always been to support and empower women and children who have been subjected to domestic abuse and homelessness. The recent attack in Southport is a reminder that violence against women remains a pervasive issue in our society. By signing this letter, we are amplifying our collective voice to demand systemic change and ensure the safety and wellbeing of all women and girls.
The attack in Southport cannot be viewed in isolation. It is part of a disturbing pattern of violence against women and girls that continues to plague our communities. Every day, women face threats to their safety in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. This violence is not only physical but also emotional and psychological, leaving deep scars that affect individuals and families for generations.
This joint letter urges the government to enhance its cross-departmental efforts on the mission to end VAWG by collaborating with experts in the field, committing to long-term funding for specialised services and prevention initiatives, and developing and implementing a new strategy to end violence against women and girls.
How you can help
- Raise awareness: Share information about VAWG and the steps being taken to address it within your networks.
- Support survivors: Volunteer or donate to organisations like The Haven Wolverhampton that provide critical services to survivors of abuse.
- Advocate for change: Contact your local representatives to express your support for policies and initiatives aimed at ending violence against women.
- Challenge attitudes: Speak out against sexism and discrimination whenever you encounter it. Promoting a culture of respect and equality is crucial in preventing violence.
The Haven Wolverhampton urges everyone to join us in demanding change. Violence against women and girls is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal problem that requires collective action. We must work together to create a safer environment where women and girls can live free from fear and violence.
