VIOLENCE against women in Warwick and Leamington will be highlighted at a local meeting.
The Leamington and Warwick Labour Women’s Forum is inviting women to share their experiences and views during a free online meeting on Tuesday (March 30) at 7.30pm.
Former chief officer of Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre Dianne Whitfield, who lives in Leamington, will speak at the event. She is also a trustee of Rape Crisis England and Wales and on the advisory board for the Centre for Childhood Sexual Abuse.
She said: “The tragic death of Sarah Everard has put a spotlight on the fact that women are not safe, and our society isn’t doing enough to protect them. I’ve spent my career helping traumatised victims of violence get help and support, and the fact we are still letting this happen is unacceptable.”
The event will be attended by local female councillors and council candidates who want to learn more about local women’s experiences.
Warwickshire Labour group leader Helen Adkins said: “While it is positive that everyone is focusing on women’s safety now, the challenge is to keep the spotlight on the issue in the longer term to achieve real lasting change. This event is about finding out about what local women are having to deal with here, in Warwickshire, and making a start.”
Jackie D’Arcy, who is standing for Warwick North, said: “Warwickshire Police figures show more than 500 women and girls reported rape in the last year, which should horrify us all. I want to know what we can do practically to support women, as this is an issue that can’t be ignored anymore.”
Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search ‘Warwick and Leamington Labour Forum’ for more details or to book tickets.
