Longford Women’s Link Launches Awareness Campaign Against Domestic Abuse
This month, Longford Women’s Link (LWL) is spearheading a groundbreaking awareness campaign aimed at highlighting the dangers and devastating consequences of domestic abuse.
’16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence’
Running from November 25 to December 10, the ’16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence’ campaign carries a powerful message: ‘Domestic violence does not discriminate.’ This international initiative serves as a crucial platform for raising awareness and advocating for change on a global, national, and local scale to combat violence against women and girls.
Community Outreach and Support
Natalie O’Reilly, the Domestic Violence Service Coordinator at LWL, emphasized that this campaign provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with women and girls across County Longford, offering vital practical, emotional, and psychological support.
“Different organizations, including Women’s Aid and other domestic violence agencies, are collaborating on this initiative,” O’Reilly noted. “We will kick off the event at Longford Shopping Centre on November 25, where we will set up a stand to provide information alongside the Rape Crisis Centre.”
Community Engagement
It’s essential to create awareness that support is readily available within the community, with the Gardaí also participating in the campaign’s promotion. O’Reilly expressed her surprise at how often women, even those who have lived in Longford for years, are unaware of the support services available to them.
“Many women suffer in silence and hesitate to come forward. This campaign aims to encourage them to seek assistance,” she stated.
Upcoming Events
The ’16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence’ stall will be present at the Longford Shopping Centre from November 25 to December 10 at 11 AM. Additionally, the LWL team will engage with the community at several locations, including Edgeworthstown Library on November 27 at 1 PM, Granard Resource Centre on December 2 at 12 PM, and Bridgeways Resource Centre on December 4 at 11:30 AM.
