Crowds take to Paisley High Street to Reclaim the Night

Hundreds of women and men took to the streets of Paisley to call for an end to violence against women and girls. 

Local people, students, activists and councillors carried placards and banners for the Reclaim the Night march, which started from outside University of West of Scotland. 

Two pipers led the march down the High Street to Dunn Square, where everyone gathered for a short memorial service. 

A wreath made by the Paisley Soroptimists was laid by Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron to honour the lives lost to violence. Afterwards, Starlight Rock Choir performed two songs. 

People attended Paisley Town Hall after the event for refreshments. 

The annual event is part of the United Nations’ international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and has been taking place in Renfrewshire for the last 18 years. 

It was organised by Renfrewshire Council’s Community Learning and Development team, Women and Children First team, partners and local support groups and campaigners. 

Provost Cameron said: “No one should feel afraid to walk through the streets at night clutching their keys in case they are attacked. It’s time for violence against women and girls, and the threat of it, to be eliminated. Women and girls shouldn’t have to modify their own behaviour to keep safe. Our society needs to change. 

“Events like Reclaim the Night are vital to help raise our voices that assaults and violence are not acceptable. Everyone should be safe from gender-based violence no matter their age, ethnicity or background. 

“It was inspiring to see so many people attend this event, which has grown year on year. Women, men and young people all marched together as one and I would like to thank each and every one of you who came along.” 

Anyone suffering from domestic violence can get help via two national helplines. Calls from a landline are free and the lines are open 24 hours a day. 

Scottish Domestic Abuse—0800 027 1234 

Abused Men in Scotland—03300 949 395 

The Council’s Women and Children First team—0300 300 0345 

More help and support for domestic abuse victims is available on the Council’s website.