Women across Ayrshire are getting set to send out a defiant message that violence against women in any form is unacceptable.
Marches across the region are taking place next month in a bid to raise awareness for women and girls’ right to walk safely through our towns.
The annual Reclaim the Night walks, which are taking place in Ayr, Kilmarnock and Irvine on Tuesday, December 6, sees a night of action as hundreds join together to tackle sexual violence and harassment.
Today is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and marks the start of the worldwide movement of 16 Days of Action to end violence against women.
The initiative takes place each year and aims to change attitudes and behaviour at all levels, ending on Human Rights Day on December 10.
South Ayrshire’s Thriving Communities team have organised a variety of events in support of the campaign including violence prevention workshops, community cinema events and creative writing group sessions.
Councillor Laura Brennan-Whitefield, Chair of the Violence Against Women Partnership, said: “As a society, we must continue to show our commitment to helping those who may be vulnerable or are experiencing abuse in any form.
“It’s important that women and girls know where to find support and advice at any time and are not afraid to seek help.
“I’m therefore pleased that this year we are once again able to offer a range of events which will promote the organisations available and provide essential information.”
North Ayrshire have also pledged their support to the 16 Days of Action and have also joined the White Ribbon Scotland campaign - a movement which directly addresses men ensuring they understand the scale of the problem and become part of the solution.
North Ayrshire Council Depute Provost, Councillor John Sweeney said: “I would like to express my firm belief that violence against women is absolutely abhorrent.
“We all have a part to play in preventing any form of violence against women and girls and I would encourage everyone to take part and sign the pledge.”
Details of the marches across North, South and East Ayrshire are listed below:
•South Ayrshire
South Ayrshire’s route begins and finishes at Ayr Academy on Tuesday, December 6, meeting at 5.30pm for a 6pm start and ending around 7pm.
The route follows: Ayr Academy, University Avenue, Craigie Way, Craigie Avenue, John Street, Ayr PO, Main Street, A719, over Old Brig, Sandgate, Boswell Park, Gaiety Theatre, Carrick Street, Wallace Tower, High Street, Kyle Street, Central Arcade, Smith Street, under bridge Mill Street, A79 over bridge at Fire Station, Craigie Road, through lane at woods off Craigie Road onto University Avenue, returning to Ayr Academy.
The event is open to everyone, men and women, so everyone is welcome to attend and support.
•North Ayrshire
North Ayrshire’s annual Reclaim the Night walk will also be taking place on Tuesday 6 December.
The walk will leave from the Harbour Arts Centre (HAC), Irvine at 5.15pm and will end at Irvine’s Townhouse with a short film, tea, and coffee. An invite is extended to anyone who wants to join in.
•East Ayrshire
East Ayrshire’s Reclaim the Night Walk, organised by The Star Centre, also takes place on Tuesday, December 6 from 5.30pm – 7.30pm.
The walking route leaves from Ayrshire College car park (Hill Street) then goes around Kilmarnock and back to the college.
Sign The White Ribbon pledge online at www.whiteribbonscotland.org.uk.
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