There are a number of free events in the next two weeks for young people in Hackney to find out more about eliminating violence against women and girls. The events coincide with the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November and the 16 days of action.

It is a shocking fact that in England and Wales seven women a month are killed by a current or former partner and an estimated one in four women will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime.  Violence against women in London also paints a bleak picture. In 2015 the Metropolitan Police Service recorded that 25% of all violent crime in the capital was domestic abuse and one in four teenage girls have reported physical abuse from their partner or ex-partner. Women are much more likely than men to be victims of domestic abuse; male violence against women accounts for 85% of domestic abuse cases reported to the police.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are affected by it, you can contact Hackney Council’s Domestic Abuse Intervention Service directly, or ask speak to someone such as a youth worker, teacher, doctor, or social worker.

If you are not ready to provide your details, the service is still happy to speak to you about your experiences, explain any limits on confidentiality and offer information and advice. You can also contact the service if you are using violence and abuse and want to get help to stop your behaviour. You can contact the team on 020 8356 4458; dais@hackney.gov.uk or visit www.hackney.gov.uk/domestic-violence. Anyone needing help or support can also contact the 24-hour free national helpline on 0808 2000 247. In an emergency always call 999.

Events

Information stall to find out more about domestic abuse and local services

Friday 24 November, 10am-4pm, Hackney Service Centre, main entrance – with staff from the Domestic Abuse Intervention Service

Turn violence around: art and rap laboratory for girls and young women aged 7-16

Saturday 25 November, 12-3pm, Latin American Women’s Aid

Contact Jael Garcia to book your space at jael@lawadv.org.uk or call 07462191700.

Young Hackney young women’s group and young men’s group

Tuesday 28 November, 6-8.30pm, The Edge Youth Hub

No booking required, contact: 020 8356 1063.

Young Hackney young women’s group and young men’s group

Tuesday 5 December, 6-8.30pm, Forest Road Youth Hub

No booking required, contact: 020 8356 2200.