Merton Joins Nationwide Campaign Against Domestic Violence

---

More than 1,300 reports of domestic violence and abuse in borough last year

Merton has become one of the first London boroughs to join a national campaign against domestic violence and sexual assault.

Merton Council has pledged its support to the UK Says No More campaign to get people talking about domestic violence and sexual assault and promote the local help available.

The council runs a One Stop Shop for victims every Monday, apart from Bank Holidays, between 9.30am and 12pm at Morden Baptist Church. The service is celebrating its sixth anniversary this year.

More than 1,300 reports of domestic violence and abuse were made to Merton Police in the last 12 months to August 2.

The One Stop Shop has supported 1,209 people since it started six years ago.

The No More campaign, which started in the United States of America, aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault and the help that is available.

In the UK, the campaign is overseen by the charity Hestia which provides refuges and support for victims of domestic abuse.

Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Councillor Katy Neep, said: “I am very happy to support the No More campaign to help raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault in our community.

“I hope that by raising awareness of the issues, people will be able to discuss any concerns they have and know where to seek help should they, or anyone they know, need it.”

Pamela Zaballa, head of policy women and children services at Hestia said: “We are thrilled to have Merton on board as a London borough partner to UK Says No More. We hope that all local authorities across the UK will join the campaign to eradicate this problem to bring about a major change in the way people react to instances of abuse.

“In order for us to successfully put an end to domestic violence and sexual assault we need every person living in the UK today to stand up against this issue, and put an end to by-standing.”

Pledge your support for the No More campaign on social media using the hashtags #Mertondv and #UKsaysnomore.

What do you think? Why not comment on our forum?

September 21, 2016