Councillors across Newham are backing a 16-day campaign of action to end violence against women.

It began today on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and will end on December 10, Human Rights Day.

The campaign aims to raise awareness around gender-based violence such as domestic abuse, rape, sexual assault, stalking, forced marriage and human trafficking and what can be done to prevent it. Newham council is working with partner organisations across the borough to support it.

An information event will be held at East Ham Customer Service Centre on November 27, giving residents and professionals the chance to find out more about the issue, its impact on victims and what is being done to end it.

It will feature activities throughout the day as well as the real story of Ayesha, a victim of domestic violence living in the borough and a performance of ‘Little Stitches’ from the BAREtruth Theatre Company.

Speakers at the event will include the Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales and Councillor Ellie Robinson who will talk about the challenge of changing perceptions around violence against women and the range of services and support the council funds.

Councillor Ellie Robinson said: “I am proud that we are supporting a number of events across the borough as part of the 16 Days of Action campaign. Violence against women is totally unacceptable and a blatant violation of human rights. The council is committed to supporting women and children who experience violence and we believe that we all have a joint responsibility to reduce repeat incidences of violence and ensure those who commit these acts are held to account.”