Campaigners are set to march through Paisley on Tuesday (27 Nov) raising awareness and calling for the elimination of violence towards women.
The Reclaim the Night march leaves from outside the University of the West of Scotland at 6:00pm and will arrive in Dunn Square at 6:30pm where Renfrewshire’s Provost, Lorraine Cameron will lay a white ribbon wreath and lead a two-minute silence in memory of those affected by domestic and sexual abuse.
The campaigners will also hear speeches from Renfrewshire’s Year of Young People Champion, Councillor Michelle Campbell, and from White Ribbon Scotland Ambassador, Gavin Newlands MP, before the march continues to Paisley Town Hall for refreshments and the opportunity for discussions.
Volunteers of all ages and genders are invited to join in and show their support as part of the wider international 16 Days of Action campaign, taking place from 25 November to 10 December.
The theme in Renfrewshire is “Year of the Young People let’s talk about it” reflecting on the statistic that young people experience the highest rates of domestic abuse of any age group.
Provost Cameron said: “The Reclaim the Night march brings this important issue to the forefront of people’s minds. It helps to raise awareness and gives people a chance to discuss their own experiences in a safe space with likeminded people.
“This year’s march is linked with EventScotland’s Year of Young People and will highlight how domestic abuse can affect our younger generations. I hope this will also enable our young people to see the support that is available to them.
“I would encourage both men and women in Renfrewshire to come together again this year and show their support for Reclaim the Night.”
No sign up or registration is required, and all are encouraged to gather at the University of the West of Scotland entrance for 6pm.
Anyone suffering from domestic violence can get help via two national helplines, which are available 24 hours a day and are free to call from a landline.
Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 027 1234
Abused Men in Scotland Helpline – 0808 800 0024
Locally, Women and Children First can be contacted on 0300 300 0345