Women, men and children from across Caerphilly county borough joined together on Wednesday 25th November as part of White Ribbon Day to remember those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic abuse.
It is estimated that one in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse at some point during their lives, and approximately two women lose their lives each week as a result of domestic abuse.
To mark White Ribbon Day, a candlelit vigil was held at Penallta House, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s headquarters, for members of the public to come along and remember those that have tragically lost their lives as a result of domestic abuse.
Over 60 people attended the vigil, during which a poignant poem entitled “I Got Flowers Today” was read out, followed by a minutes silence and reflection to pay tribute to victims.
The vigil also provided an opportunity to raise awareness of domestic abuse in general, and to encourage those who may be suffering from domestic abuse to seek help and support.
Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Lyn Ackerman said, “Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of age, wealth, religion, culture or class.
This fact, together with the fact that two women die each week as a result of domestic abuse means that White Ribbon Day is not only a poignant opportunity to remember those who have so tragically lost their lives through domestic abuse, but it also offers us the opportunity to raise awareness of the fact that help is out there for those suffering from domestic abuse.
I would like to say a big thank you to everyone that joined us on White Ribbon Day, and would urge anyone suffering domestic abuse not to suffer in silence, and to seek help from the support services available in Caerphilly county borough.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please contact the Safer Caerphilly Multi Agency Centre (MAC) on 01443 819 317 during office hours, or the 24 hour All Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 80 10 800.
Further information on the domestic abuse support services available in Caerphilly county borough can be found on the Safer CCB website at http://www.caerphilly.gov.uk/saferccb/.
