Gwent residents walk a mile to raise awareness of violence towards women

About 150 people gathered at Caldicot Castle to walk a mile and raise awareness of male violence towards women on Monday 25 November.

The walk was one of many activities across the country held to mark White Ribbon Day, an annual event which marks the United Nation’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and aims to raise awareness and work towards ending male violence towards women.

It was organised by Gwent Regional VAWDASV Partnership Board which is a multi-agency collaboration working across Gwent to prevent violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Janice Dent, regional lead advisor for Gwent VAWDASV, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people turn out for this event to show their support and commitment to creating a world without violence towards women and girls.

“Sadly, too many people live in fear and suffer in silence. We know that victims find it hard to come forward but it is vital that they do and I would urge anyone who is experiencing abuse, or knows someone who is, to seek support.”

The event was supported by Caldicot Castle, Monmouthshire County Council, The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, Gwent Police, Dewstow Primary School’s Heddlu Bach, Monmouthshire Pupil Referral Unit, Llamau, Hafan Cymru, New Pathways, Cyfannol Women’s Aid, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, and The Brothers, a Charter Housing and Bron Afon project.

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or has concerns about a friend or family member, can contact the Live Fear Free helpline on 0808 80 10 800.

Support is also available from the Connect Gwent victims’ hub on 0300 1232133.

To report a crime contact 101. In an emergency call 999.