Ribbons and information about support services available today

WHITE Ribbon Day, a day of national action against violence towards women is being supported by the council today.

Hackney Council employees are handing out white ribbons and telling residents about the support they can get if they are experiencing domestic violence.

White Ribbon Day, held every November 25, campaigns for an end to violence towards women. Wearing a white ribbon or wristband today shows others you are standing up against violence towards women. To support the cause, collect your white ribbon from Hackney Central Library in Mare Street, Hackney, or Hackney Service Centre, in Hillman Street, between 10am until 4pm.

The council’s domestic violence team will be available to provide information on services and support available in the borough.

One in four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

Councillor Sophie Linden, Cabinet Member for Crime, Sustainability and Customer Services, said: “We can only help those who come forward and talk to us.

“Survivors tell us that information about local services from friends and family is one of the most important ways to get help, so we are urging anyone who is concerned for a friend or family member, to visit the library or service centre and find out about how the council and partner organisations offer support.”

Detective Sergeant Jim Newcombe of Hackney’s Community Safety Unit said that victims of domestic violence had nothing to fear in reporting abuse, and each case will be dealt with sensitively.

“Violence in any form will not be tolerated in Hackney and we are committed to prosecuting the perpetrators. Domestic violence is a crime, and the perpetrators of this abuse need to know that we will not hesitate to take action against them.”

Hackney Council runs a free helpline for women concerned about violence from Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5pm (0800 056 0905).

Alongside Tower Hamlets Council, it has set up a specialist domestic violence court at Thames Magistrates in Bow. Focussing on one area ensures offenders are brought to justice more quickly.