Campaigners are preparing to march through Paisley to raise awareness of the impact of all forms of violence towards women.

The Reclaim the Night march – an annual event which encourages people to join together in support of women who have suffered at the hands of domestic violence – will take place on 25 November.

16 Days of Action logo

The theme of this year’s march is coercive and controlling behaviour and will demonstrate that “this is what it looks like”. Reclaim the Night is a show of strength and a collective demand for freedom from sexual violence and harassment.

Volunteers of all ages and genders are invited to join in the candle-lit march to show their support as part of the wider international 16 Days of Action campaign, which will run from 25 November until 10 December.

Marchers will gather at the University of the West of Scotland at 6pm and make a short stop at the memorial plaque in Dunn Square, before arriving at Paisley Abbey at 6:30pm.

Tea and coffee will be served in the Abbey at the end of the march.

At the request of Paisley Soroptimists, Paisley Arts Centre and Abbey Gate will be illuminated in purple on 25 November, which also marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Renfrewshire’s Provost, Lorraine Cameron will lay a white ribbon wreath at the Dunn Square memorial and lead a two-minute silence in memory of those affected by domestic and sexual abuse.

Provost Cameron said: “Reclaim the Night brings the impact of all forms of violence towards women to the forefront of our minds and gives people a chance to discuss their own experiences in a safe space with likeminded people.

“This year’s theme of coercive and controlling behaviour will highlight the different forms abuse can take and demonstrate the impact of psychological violence.

“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 marchers are encouraged to gather at the University of the West of Scotland entrance for 6pm.

16 Days of Action encourages us to consider the impact of domestic violence on people and families all over the world.

Anyone suffering from domestic violence can call the numbers below for help and advice.

Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 027 1234 Locally, Women and Children First can be contacted on 0300 300 0345

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Founder of Paisley.org.uk in 1998 and constantly strives to change peoples attitudes to the town, Brian is a self described Paisley Digital Champion who promotes Paisley via any means necessary. You can also follow me on X