Domestic abuse support available as council marks White Ribbon Day

Ahead of White Ribbon Day on Wednesday, November 25, residents in Bridgend county borough are being reminded of the range of local support available to help victims of domestic abuse.

The UK-wide White Ribbon campaign aims to raise awareness of male violence towards women. The white ribbon symbol represents the conviction that abuse, no matter what form it takes, is unacceptable.

Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Future Generations, Cllr Dhanisha Patel, said: “The White Ribbon campaign is a way of demonstrating our support for victims and survivors of violence and abuse.

“Each year thousands of people stand up, speak out and say no to violence against women. This year, the message is more important than ever with a significant increase in violence, harassment and abuse towards women during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Anyone in Bridgend county borough who is the victim of domestic abuse can get in touch with Calan DVS or the council’s independent domestic violence adviser (IDVA) service for support.”

Between April and September this year, the IDVA service supported 366 high-risk victims of domestic abuse, compared to 253 during the same period last year.

Calan DVS offers domestic violence services including refuge, support in the community, crisis drop-in services, support for children and young people exposed to domestic violence and abuse. Between April and September, it received 828 referrals compared to 664 in the same period last year.

Victims can access support via the Calan DVS website or by calling 01656 766139.

Information can also be found on Bridgend County Borough Council’s emergency support webpage, by emailing talktous@bridgend.gov.uk or by contacting the IDVA service via BCBC customer services on 01656 643643.