Video: Havering Council Hosts Groundbreaking Conference and Events to Tackle Violence Against Women and Girls.

Havering Council marked a pivotal moment in its commitment to eradicating Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) by hosting a landmark conference and two historic firsts for the borough: a solidarity march and a flag raising ceremony. The events focused on the crucial role men must play in challenging inappropriate behaviour and promoting a culture of respect within the community.

Conference Highlights: Men Challenging Men

The conference, held in the Town Hall, brought together statutory partners, including the Metropolitan Police and the London Fire Brigade, alongside numerous voluntary organisations such as Havering Women’s Aid, Cranstoun, and more. The central theme was the vital importance of men challenging men to shift attitudes, intervene when witnessing inappropriate or harmful conduct, and educate young people and future generations.

A panel discussion featured powerful contributions from:

• Councillor Mugglestone
• Andrew Blake-Herbert, CEO of Havering Council
• Metropolitan Police
• You Thrive
• Youth Unity
• Aanchal Women’s Aid
• Cranstoun
• Dr Junior Smart OBE

Speakers shared insights on prevention, intervention, and the collective responsibility of communities to stand against gender-based violence.

“Today was about establishing that the fight against VAWG is a community responsibility, and that men are essential allies,” said Councillor Barry Mugglestone, “We must empower men to speak up and actively challenge the norms that perpetuate this violence.”

A Day of Historic Firsts

The conference was framed by two unprecedented displays of solidarity within the local authority:

• Flag Raising: For the first time ever, a dedicated flag was raised at the Havering Building to symbolise the local authority’s unwavering commitment to the VAWG campaign and the safety of its residents.
• Solidarity March: Also a local authority first, attendees participated in a powerful solidarity march through the town centre, uniting partners, volunteers, and community members to visually and publicly stand together against gender-based violence.

At the end of the march, the Community Engagement Van was stationed in the town centre, providing free crime prevention materials to the public and engaging directly with residents on safety and awareness.

Special thanks are extended to the Community Safety Team, who were instrumental in organising the entire day’s events. Particular recognition is given to Sarah Strang, who leads the Council’s work on VAWG. Her dedication was key in successfully bringing together a diverse and powerful coalition—from statutory partners to crucial voluntary organisations—ensuring all were present today to stand together in the fight against violence towards women and girls.

Havering Council is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all residents. These events mark the start of a sustained programme of work to support survivors and prevent violence in the borough.

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