Sandwell Launches Powerful Campaign to Combat Violence Against Women and Girls
Sandwell Council, in partnership with West Midlands Police and Black Country Women’s Aid, has launched a comprehensive new initiative – “Sandwell Stands Against Violence Towards Women and Girls” – aiming to raise awareness, support survivors, and drive action against gender-based violence across the borough. The campaign’s launch on Tuesday, November 25th, coincides with the start of the internationally-recognized 16 Days of Action against Gender-Based Violence.
The initiative officially began with White Ribbon Day, where male leaders throughout Sandwell publicly pledged their support, symbolized by the illumination of Sandwell Council House in Oldbury with orange lighting. This visible demonstration underscores the commitment to challenging harmful attitudes and behaviors.
The 16 Days of Action will unfold through a series of events across Sandwell’s six towns, designed to foster community participation and provide reassurance to residents. Key events include the flagship Reclaim the Night walk on December 8th and a borough-wide Violence Against Women and Girls summit on December 10th. Each event will concentrate on a specific facet of violence against women and girls – encompassing issues like domestic abuse, stalking, online safety, and sexual violence – and will be spearheaded by a designated female councillor. Attendees will have direct access to support agencies, vital resources, and confidential advice throughout the campaign’s duration.
At the heart of “Sandwell Stands” is a striking visual message featuring local residents. This community-driven artwork will be prominently displayed on social media platforms, in public spaces, and at all campaign events, serving as a clear signpost to available support and encouraging widespread participation.
“Every woman and girl deserves to feel safe in our borough – and we will not stop until that is a reality,” stated Councillor Suzanne Hartwell, Sandwell’s Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community. “We are proud to work with our partners and communities to raise awareness, support survivors and take action.”
Councillor Paul Moore, Deputy Council Leader, reinforced this message, adding, “This campaign has a clear and united message: Sandwell stands against violence towards women and girls. We all have a responsibility to work together to help women and girls feel safe in Sandwell.”
Law enforcement is also playing a crucial role. Chief Superintendent Kim Madill, Sandwell Police Commander for West Midlands Police, emphasized the commitment to tackling violence in all its forms. “The 16 Days of Action is an opportunity to listen, engage and show that we stand with women and girls,” she said. “We encourage everyone to take part in the events and help make Sandwell safer.”
The campaign’s focus on collaboration extends to vital support organizations. Sara Ward, Chief Executive of Black Country Women’s Aid, explained, “This campaign is about visibility, solidarity and change. Every day, our services support women and girls affected by abuse. By standing together, we send a powerful message that violence will not be tolerated – and that help is available.”
Residents are actively encouraged to participate in the events, amplify the campaign’s message online using the hashtag #SandwellStands, and join the Reclaim the Night Walk as a visible demonstration of support. Further details about events and opportunities for involvement can be found on the Sandwell Stands webpage.
For immediate assistance, residents can visit the Black Country Women’s Aid website for advice and support or call their 24-hour helpline at 0121 552 6448. In any emergency situation, always dial 999.
Upcoming Events:
- Rowley Regis: Wednesday, November 26th, 10am – 1pm, Cradley Heath Library. Theme: Domestic Abuse – The impact on victims and children and building safe community responses.
- Wednesbury: Friday, November 28th, 10am – 1.30pm, Wednesbury Library. Theme: Exploitation and Modern Day Slavery – Highlighting women’s experiences, linking local and global exploitation.
- Tipton: Monday, December 1st, 2pm – 4pm, Jubilee Park Community Centre. Theme: Stalking – raising awareness, prevention, and safeguarding.
- Oldbury: Tuesday, December 2nd, 10am – 2pm, The Oak Tree Centre. Theme: Rape, Sexual Violence and FGM – Challenging societal attitudes and supporting survivor voices.
- West Bromwich: Wednesday, December 3rd, 1.45pm – 4pm, Central Library. Theme: Harmful practices – so-called ‘honour’ based abuse.
- Smethwick: Thursday, December 4th, 12 noon – 4pm, Smethwick Family Hub. Theme: Tech-facilitated abuse and stalking, digital safety – online threats and harm.
- Reclaim the Night Walk: Monday, December 8th, 4pm – 7pm, starting at Sandwell Council House. This peaceful, family-friendly walk will take place on pavements and well-lit streets in Oldbury; registration is encouraged for safety planning.
The “Sandwell Stands” campaign represents a united front against violence towards women and girls, signaling a firm commitment to creating a safer and more supportive community for all.
