Coming together to help end domestic violence

violence against women and girls in East Dunbartonshire was launched at Boclair Academy in Bearsden last week.

The 16 Days of Action campaign aims to raise awareness and highlight the unacceptability of male violence towards women.

World Health Organisation statistics show that one in five women will experience domestic abuse at some time in their life and more women are killed as a result of maleviolence than by car accidents, cancer, malaria and war combined.

Empowered - the East Dunbartonshire Multi Agency Partnership for Violence Against Women and Girls - held a special event at the Bearsden school for sixth year pupils which was opened by East Dunbartonshire Provost, Councillor Una Walker.

The students heard from inspiring speakers from East Dunbartonshire Youth Council and the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit.

Pupils also heard some music from Scottish rapper Loki, who invited the audience to discuss themes within his rap following the performance.

Provost Walker said: “East Dunbartonshire Council, and its partners, are committed to supporting women and children who experience male violence and are involved in a number of projects in the area including the 16 Days of Action.

“We wish to encourage individuals, organisations and public services to take action on the commitments they have made to ending Violence Against Women and Girls. Every action, no matter how big or small, can make a difference.”

The campaign will end with an event at Kirkintilloch High School on December 10.