Exclusive: Powerful and Moving White Ribbon Walk in Romford Sees Women Stand Together Against Violence.

Havering Council’s Community Safety Team, Havering Police and local Violence Against Women and Girls campaigners are making every day of this White Ribbon sixteen days of action count. Yesterday, VAWG campaigner Maxine Kemp was joined by a team of dedicated women, including Sarah from Havering Council, Councillor Jane Keane and Police Inspector Jayshree Patel, for a walk from Havering Town Hall to Raphael Park to stand in solidarity against violence towards women.

Before setting off, Maxine and the group tied white ribbons to the railings outside the Town Hall, along with two red ribbons placed in remembrance of the two women who tragically lost their lives to violence this year. Maxine then delivered a deeply moving talk, bravely sharing her personal experience of the horrific violence she suffered when a man broke into her home.

Sarah from Havering’s Community Safety Team showcased a range of practical safety items the council is providing to women across the borough. These included torches with built-in charging leads, hair scrunchies designed to help prevent drink spiking, and other tools aimed at helping women feel safer when out in the community.

Havering Inspector Jayshree Patel, the borough’s lead for VAWG, also joined the walk and spoke about the significant work under way across Havering to combat violence against women and support those affected. She told the Havering Daily:

“As part of the 16 Days of Action campaign, Neighbourhood Officers joined Sole Steppers, led by Maxine Kemp, for a Walk and Talk around Raphael’s Park. The event gave us as an opportunity to demonstrate unity and support for the group and its important work within the community. By taking part, officers reaffirmed their commitment to raising awareness and standing together against Violence Against Women and Girls”.

Councillor Jane Keane told the Havering Daily:

“I pay tribute to all those working to eradicate violence against women and girls; and to the survivors of men’s violence I wish you swift justice, healing and peace.”

Well done to all the ladies involved. This is a fantastic partnership of incredible campaigners like Maxine, Havering Council’s Community Safety team who do an excellent job across the borough and Havering Police’s Inspector Patel who works tirelessly to stop violence against women and girls.

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