Havering Council Leads Powerful Campaign During 16 Days of Action to Eliminate Violence Against Women and Girls

Havering Council’s Community Safety Team has proudly spearheaded a series of impactful initiatives during this year’s 16 Days of Action, reaffirming its commitment to ending violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Working in close partnership with the Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade, alongside council partners and community organisations, the campaign showcased the strength of collaboration in driving meaningful change.

Sarah Strang, Havering;s VAWG lead, engaged directly with young people through thought-provoking sessions at Havering Sixth Form College. These conversations focused on fostering respect, challenging harmful behaviours and how to be an active bystander and challenge harassment safety.

Community groups including Sole Steppers and Complete Football Academy joined forces with the council to amplify the message across Havering. Their involvement ensured the campaign reached diverse audiences and highlighted the importance of community-led action.

This year’s theme, “Men Challenging Men”, placed a spotlight on the vital role of male allyship in tackling VAWG. By encouraging men to call out inappropriate and misogynistic behaviour, the campaign aimed to create a culture where respect and accountability are the norm.
Practical support was also a key feature of the initiative. Hundreds of personal safety devices and anti-spiking devices were distributed to residents, reinforcing the council’s commitment to safeguarding the community.

In a historic first, Havering Council raised the White Ribbon flag at the Town Hall, symbolising solidarity and zero tolerance for violence against women and girls. This powerful gesture was complemented by a March of Solidarity, bringing together residents, partners, and advocates to stand united against abuse.

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