Peterborough City Council has launched a short film, the first as part of a series, showcasing lived experiences of Domestic Abuse victims.
The council, alongside partner organisations and local charities Impakt, Peterborough Women’s Aid, Peterborough Rape Crisis Care Group and Living Keys have come together to recognise White Ribbon Day, an international campaign to raise awareness about Violence Against Women and Girls and the support available to those affected by it.
The video found can be found here - we will be sharing five of these videos individually on social media across the campaign's 16 days of action, which we would like people to watch and share to help raise awareness.
The stories, presented by actors, are from victims of domestic abuse, telling their stories and ends with a focus on the steps they’ve taken to rebuild their lives.
The videos focus on nine experiences, ranging from physical abuse to financial and emotional abuse, all tying together how they took the steps to seek help and are now free of fear and control, and finding their voices again.
White Ribbon Day also marks the start of the 16 Days of Action against gender based violence, which runs until Human Rights Day on 10 December.
Councillor Dr Shabina Qayyum, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health said: “Supporting White Ribbon Day is not just a symbolic gesture, it is a call to action for our entire community. We must work together to challenge and change the attitudes that perpetuate violence against women and girls.
"By raising awareness and promoting respectful relationships, we can create a safer, more inclusive Peterborough for everyone. I urge residents to join us in making this commitment and to speak out against violence in all its forms.”
As part of further awareness, on Wednesday 6 December a rock choir will be performing in Cathedral Square from 12.30pm in front of the Guildhall.