#NoExcuse Campaign: Raising Awareness of Violence Against Women and Girls in Newry and Mourne

#NoExcuse Campaign Against Violence Towards Women and Girls

Overview

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, with Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Southern Health and Social Care Trust, and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, has initiated the #NoExcuse campaign. This campaign raises awareness of violence against women and girls and runs from November 22 to December 10, coinciding with the UN Women’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Information Sessions

The campaign features three Information Sessions:

• Date and Locations:
  • November 25: Newry Leisure Centre
  • November 26: Down Leisure Centre
  • November 27: South Lakes Leisure Centre
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm
  These sessions are open to everyone and allow women and girls to learn about support services anonymously. Representatives from local support organizations will be present.

Campaign Goals

The #NoExcuse campaign aims to address violence against women and girls, highlighting its various forms including sexual harassment, discrimination, emotional abuse, and online harassment. It seeks to engage the community in creating a safer environment.

Community Statements

• Councillor Pete Byrne: Emphasizes that violence against women and girls is an ongoing issue. The campaign empowers communities to stand against unacceptable behaviors.
• Donna Murphy (Southern Health and Social Care Trust): States that no one should feel unsafe at home or in the community. She calls for collective action to break the silence on violence.
• Councillor Sarah Duffy: Highlights the widespread nature of sexual violence and the importance of supporting victims while rejecting victim-blaming attitudes.
• Jason Caldwell (South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust): Warns that anyone can become a victim of violence and encourages the community to take a firm stand against such acts.

Support Resources

Both Health Trusts are ready to assist those in need. Key contact numbers are:

• Southern Health and Social Care Trust: 028 3576 7100
• South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust: 0300 100 0300
• 24-Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline: 0808 802 1414

For more resources and information on the campaign, visit Newry Mourne and Down Safeguarding.

This campaign serves as a vital reminder that every individual can contribute to a future free from violence. There is ‘No Excuse’ for such behaviors.