Candlelit vigil held for White Ribbon Day

Pics: Charlotte Archibald

A candlelit vigil has been held in Barry to mark International White Ribbon Day.

Around 30 people attended the event on Monday evening outside the Civic Offices, organised by Vale Domestic Abuse Services.

The group says last year, it provided support for over a thousand women who had experienced male violence.

Vicky Friis, CEO of Vale Domestic Abuse Services, said: "Each year, demand for our services continues to increase, which speaks to the growing need for support and action."

"This vigil is an opportunity to reflect, to remember, and to show solidarity with survivors. We must continue to fight against domestic abuse, sexual violence, and all forms of violence against women."

One such survivor of male survivor spoke at the event, alongside Vale Council leader Lis Burnett and the Labour MS for the Vale, Jane Hutt.

The social justice secretary said: "I was glad to join Vale Domestic Abuse Services, the Vale of Glamorgan Council, and people from across Barry at our White Ribbon candlelight vigil...we heard powerful contributions from survivors and lit candles for women everywhere."

During the vigil, a banner showing the names and photos of 71 women who died as a result of domestic violence in the UK last year was on display.

A minute's silence was also held in their memory and supporters also signed a pledge board for survivors.

International White Ribbon Day marks the start of a global awareness week for the campaign to educate men and boys about bringing an end to violence against women and girls.

This year, the campaign is aiming to encourage men to make themselves accountable to women and to each other in order to transform harmful cultures.

The vigil was held a day after a 12 year-old girl was stabbed in a car park at nearby Barry Island - two teenage boys have since been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

A spokesperson for Vale Domestic Abuse Services said the vigil "served as a powerful show of solidarity for women and children impacted by male violence, as well as a call to action to end all forms of gender-based violence."

They added: "As the vigil concluded, the message was clear: gender-based violence must end, and the community is united in the fight for justice, safety, and support for all survivors."

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