Wiltshire Council to step up efforts to end violence against women and girls
A dedicated Councillor Champion is to be named
Wiltshire Council is stepping up its efforts to keep women in the county safe by appointing a dedicated champion.
The council is now recognising violence against women and girls (VAWG) as an emergency in the county after passing a motion at the last Full Council meeting.
The motion was brought by Jennie Westbrook, who told us it was a response to the number of women experiencing domestic abuse, rape and serious sexual assaults.
She said: "Sadly, we know that most victims don't actually report what's actually happened to them. So we brought this motion forward so that we could ensure that the Council was playing a very vital role in the ending violence against women and girls emergency and to make sure that the issue stays visible and that we could make sure that there was clear leadership and that we could push for more to be done."
Cllr Westbrook said this is about action and making sure the local authority is there for people when they need them most, and praised those in the chamber for a their response.
"There has been the most incredible response from people, both out in the community and from within the chamber, and I think it shows that violence against women and girls isn't a political issue, it's about people," she said.
The motion called for a Councillor Champion, with several already making it known that they would be interested in the role. The decision on the Champion will be made by Cllr Mel Jacob, the Deputy Leader of the Council.
During the debate, personal experiences were shared, with Cllr Westbrook describing them as some of the "bravest contributions that will ever be made in the Council Chamber".
She said she hopes it sends a powerful message to the women of Wiltshire that they are being seen and heard, and that they're not alone.
"The truth is women and girls deserve to live without violence and without abuse and really without fear," Cllr Westbrook said.
"Clear message sent" says local charity
FearFree, the support service commissioned by the local authority, has welcomed the Council's move.
Charity CEO, Debbie Beadle said the role will build on the work already being done across the sector in Wiltshire and will encourage more people to help create a safer environment for everyone.
"We are really pleased to hear that a dedicated Champion will be appointed and believe it sends a clear message that Wiltshire is going above and beyond to ending violence against women and girls.
"We believe this role can help strengthen and build on the work already happening across Wiltshire. Most importantly, we hope it will help keep the voices and experiences of victim survivors at the heart of decision-making, while encouraging more people to take action and play their part in creating a safer county for everyone."
Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "Violence against women and girls remains a significant issue that has a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities. Wiltshire Council is committed to tackling domestic abuse and supporting victims and survivors of all genders, and this work will continue."