16 Days of Action 2021

Domestic abuse is the main cause of significant harm to children and young people in East Renfrewshire.  Over the last 12 months 1000 women and children have sought help from Women's Aid East Renfrewshire.

East Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) is supporting the global campaign, 16 Days of Action to End Gender Based Violence, to raise awareness of domestic abuse in East Renfrewshire and to encourage anyone affected from gender based violence to seek help.

16 Days takes place from 25 November to 10 December.  It is an international campaign coordinated by the Center for Women's Global Leadership and is supported by more than 6,000 organisations in 187 countries.

Women's Aid is a free, safe, discreet and confidential service. The charity supports women, children and young people who are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse. They provide confidential support, information and access to temporary accommodation. Support is provided in a non-judgemental way whether you are still in the relationship or experiencing difficulties now the relationship has ended.

In East Renfrewshire, the charity can provide support by phone (0141 404 0015), email (info@wasler.org.uk) or in person. This can be in a safe location, your home, in your community or at their new premises in The Foundry, Barrhead. Their new office is open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm and those seeking help are able to drop-in anytime during those hours without an appointment. The reception staff at The Foundry will discreetly direct you to their office, just ask for 'Bonnie'.

Kate Rocks, Head of Public Protection and Children Services, Chief Social Work Officer at East Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: "16 Days is an important campaign for us to support, as no one should experience domestic abuse. 

"The pandemic, specifically lockdown, made it difficult for women to reach out for help but support is available and I would encourage anyone experiencing abuse - whether physical or emotional - to reach out to Women's Aid for help.

"We have been investing in domestic abuse awareness for our staff and partners and are committed to building a trauma-informed workforce. We work closely with Women's Aid and a range of other partners across the authority including Social Work (adults and children), Health, Education, Police, Addictions, Housing, Fire & Rescue and third sector organisations and are committed to doing our part to end violence against women."

Christine Miller, Team Manager at Women's Aid East Renfrewshire, said: "The last 20 months have been difficult for everyone but for those living with domestic abuse, their situation has been amplified which is terrifying.

"For anyone experiencing domestic abuse: we are here for you. Please come and speak to us. We can help you no matter what your situation is."

For help contact East Renfrewshire Women's Aid on 0141 404 0015 or the national domestic abuse and forced marriage helpline on 0800 027 1234 (open 24 hours).