Speak out against violence

Speak out against violence

Did you know?

• 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will have experienced some form of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking.
• On average, 2 women a week in England and Wales are killed by a violent partner or ex-partner.
• 70% of incidents of domestic violence result in injury.
• Domestic violence is estimated to cost victims, services and the state a total of around £23 billion a year.

To end violence against women we need a culture change. We need people to speak out about it and condemn it. So, one of the most important things you can do is to talk about it.

Take action this November

The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort to end domestic violence against women.

This year White Ribbon Day is on Sunday 25 November – everyone is being encouraged to wear a white ribbon and make a personal pledge never to condone, commit or remain silent about domestic abuse.

White Ribbon Day is officially recognised by the UN as International Day for the Eradication of Violence Against Women. However domestic abuse can affect anyone irrespective of age, gender, ethnicity, religion or disability. It can be physical, emotional, sexual or financial.

Where to get help

Within West Sussex there are a number of organisations which support those affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence.

WORTH services is an Independent Domestic Violence Advisory (IDVA) service that identifies, assesses and assists people in West Sussex who have been affected by domestic abuse. Find out more on the WORTH services page.

The Saturn Centre provides a range of services to anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. These services are available whether or not the assault has been reported to the police. For more information, and if you need help now, contact the Saturn Centre by calling 01293 600 469 (24 hour answer phone).

For urgent advice, phone or report to Sussex police by calling 101. In an emergency always call 999.

Visit West Sussex County Council’s White Ribbon Campaign page page to find out about the range of other services available locally.

Our friendly Wellbeing Advisors can also point you in the right direction if you’re unsure where to turn and want to make changes to improve your wellbeing.