Aimed at businesses to educate and support them to take action against domestic abuse, this scheme was created by The Corporate Alliance starting yesterday and ending on the 10th of December.
The aim over the 16 days is to train staff to see the abuse and report it and to make victims feel comfortable to speak out and identify its different forms. The movement first began in 1992 at the Women’s Global Leadership Institute, an event sponsored by the Centre for Women’s Global Leadership. Since then, over 5,000 groups in 187 countries have contributed to promoting and supporting these 16 Days. The Corporate Alliance has taken the model of the original movement, and tailored it to businesses and has centred on the impact that domestic violence has on the workplace.
There is a wide range of ways to participate in the cause such as the World Health Organisation, are promoting 16 facts to help educate the public and their staff. Closer to home, Stroud Women’s Refuge, have screened a free documentary Banaz: A Love Story to help women identify abuse from their families. Also taking part is Gloucestershire County Council, by posting on social media. Gloucestershire rural Community Council are participating by tying purple ribbons around lampposts and trees in public areas around the county.
To help and support the scheme you can sign the pledge on their website, https://16daysofaction.co.uk/, to receive emails and updates. Free ‘Toolkits’ are also available, containing posters and stories from victims of domestic abuse. The kit also contains podcasts, videos and blogs with advice and information. A media briefing is also available to let you know how being active on social media and twitter can help spread the message.
