A beacon of hope emerges as the Birmingham city council unveils its ‘Have Your Say – Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy’. This initiative, a testament to the city’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens, resonates deeply with us at Contento Social Homes. We stand at the forefront of this battle, dedicated to providing survivors of domestic abuse and their children with not just safe accommodation but the skills necessary for a brighter future. Our mission aligns seamlessly with the council’s efforts, making this initiative not just strategic but imperative.
Recent statistics underscore the urgency of a collective action. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that in the year ending March 2023, an estimated 2.1 million people aged 16 years and over experienced domestic abuse in England and Wales. Despite the staggering numbers, the prevalence of domestic abuse remains unchanged from the previous year, signalling a persistent challenge that demands innovative solutions and relentless advocacy (ONS, 2023).
The UK government, recognising the gravity of violence against women and girls (VAWG) as a national threat, has taken significant steps to address this scourge. The introduction of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 and other legislative measures aims to broaden the understanding of domestic abuse beyond physical violence, encompassing emotional, coercive or controlling behaviour, and economic abuse. This holistic approach is crucial in acknowledging the complex dynamics of abuse and providing comprehensive support to survivors (House of Lords Library, 2021).
Contento Social Homes’ commitment to this cause is unwavering. By participating in Birmingham City Council’s workshops and contributing to the strategy’s development, we not only amplify the voices of survivors but also reinforce our resolve to end domestic violence. The statistics are a grim reminder of the work ahead: 1 in 5 adults in the UK experience domestic abuse during their lifetime, with women disproportionately affected. Furthermore, the police recorded over 1.5 million domestic abuse-related incidents and crimes in the year ending March 2022, highlighting the pervasive nature of this issue (NCDV, 2022).
As we reflect on these figures, our resolve strengthens. The economic and social costs of domestic abuse, estimated at £66 billion for England and Wales, underscore the far-reaching impact of this issue, affecting not just individuals but communities and the very fabric of our society (NCDV, 2019). Yet, there is hope. With initiatives like Birmingham’s ‘Have Your Say’, and the dedicated efforts of organisations like Contento Social Homes, we are forging a path towards a future where violence against women and girls is not just reduced but eradicated.
Our journey is long, and the challenges are many, but together, we can make a difference. As we stand with Birmingham City Council in this critical initiative, we invite you to join us. Let us unite in our efforts to provide a safe haven for survivors, to empower them with the skills for a better tomorrow, and to end the cycle of violence once and for all. Our commitment is unwavering, and our mission, more crucial than ever. Together, we can transform the narrative from one of survival to one of thriving, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to live a life free from violence and fear.
Join the Movement with Birmingham’s “Have Your Say” Initiative
As Contento Social Homes steadfastly supports Birmingham City Council’s groundbreaking initiative to end violence against women and girls, we encourage our community to actively engage in shaping a safer future for all. The “Have Your Say – Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Survey” is a cornerstone of this mission, offering every Birmingham resident a voice in the fight against gender-based violence.
Sharing is Caring:
We urge you to share the survey with your networks. The more voices we gather, the more robust and effective our strategy will be. Men and boys are also encouraged to participate, underscoring the importance of allyship in our collective quest for change. ACCESS THE SURVEY HERE
Engage and Influence:
Additionally, the Community Safety Team is hosting workshops to dive deeper into the community’s insights and suggestions. These sessions are open to anyone with a stake in ending violence against women and girls. Join us on the following dates to make your voice heard:
- Wednesday, 6th March 12noon – 1.30pm
- Thursday, 7th March 6pm – 7:30pm
Registration is essential, so please sign up to secure your spot. ACCESS HERE
