Published: Monday 15 March 2021
Statement from Cllr Emma Will, lead member for community safety, on the safety of women and girls following the death of Sarah Everard:
“I am deeply shocked and saddened by the killing of Sarah Everard and my thoughts are with her family and friends at this incredibly difficult and traumatic time.
“Sarah’s death has provoked a great deal of anxiety for many of our residents. We know there is more to do in every corner of society, from individuals and organisations, but I want to reassure you that myself and this Council is committed to tackling violence against women and girls.
“Over the last few days we have seen women sharing their stories of times when they have felt unsafe. Our experiences of abuse, intimidation and violence are all too common.
“Support is available for women affected by domestic abuse, harassment and sexual violence via the Angelou Partnership. We commission the consortia of 10 local specialist organisations and they continue to support women during the pandemic through telephone and online consultations.
“Statistics show that nationally 1 in 5 women will experience sexual assault during their lifetime, 1 in 4 women will experience domestic abuse. This is not just a women’s issue, this is an issue for every single person in society. We need men to hold other men to account, teach boys how to respect women and help us to make public spaces safe for women.”
Information about the Council’s responses to violence against women and girls can be found via:
Find more information visit on the services provided by the Angelou Partnership visit https://www.angelou.org.