Elected Members on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council have sent a powerful message to our communities and staff that violence against women is never acceptable.
Members once again reiterated their commitment to raising awareness around domestic violence and abuse by signing the White Ribbon Charter.
In doing so, Council has given its support to the campaign undertaken in Northern Ireland by Women’s Aid in Antrim, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Larne and Newtownabbey (ABCLN), which encourages groups and individuals to make a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
Elected Members also signed the Workplace Charter on Domestic Violence, an accreditation scheme to enable organisations, businesses, churches and communities to be recognised for their support to anyone affected by domestic violence or abuse.
Council has been awarded the highest level of accreditation, the Platinum Award in the Workplace Charter, given to organisations which have demonstrated commitment to go beyond the requirements of the Gold Workplace Charter and partner with training provider Onus to encourage other organisations to join them in providing Safe Places for anyone living with domestic abuse.
The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, congratulated all those involved in the campaign to show zero tolerance for domestic violence.
“Through our support for the White Ribbon campaign and the signing of the Workplace Charter on Domestic Violence, council members have sent a strong and important message that violence of any form against women is never acceptable.
“As we head towards Christmas, we know this is a time when domestic violence is more pronounced, and with this year having been the busiest ever for the PSNI with over 32,000 domestic violence incidents reported, it is essential that we assure our communities and staff that such acts will not be condoned.
“Everyone has a role to play in stopping domestic abuse and I am proud that Mid and East Antrim Borough Council continues to demonstrate their support for those who find themselves in such terrible situations within the home.”
If you or anyone you know is suffering domestic violence Women’s Aid offers advice and information at www.womensaidni.org while calls can also be made to the 24-hour Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 802 1414.
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