#16daysofaction: Safer London VIP workshop
At Safer London so many of the Londoners we work with have had experiences of domestic abuse and violence.
To show our stand on the 16 days of action against domestic violence we wanted to have the Safer London young Londoner VIP’s learn about, as well as review and evaluate, one of our services which supports Londoners affected by domestic violence and abuse.
The Pan London Housing Reciprocal is a scheme that supports social housing tenants affected by domestic violence and abuse through relocation. You can learn more about their work over the past three years here.
On the last day of #16daysofaction, the team behind the Reciprocal led on a workshop designed to gain the views of our VIP’s. With the intention of implementing and challenging the way we work and support those who access our services.
Together the VIPs and our staff looked through a Reciprocal case study and through collaborative discussion the young Londoners provided their reflections on the a case, as well as provided ideas of how the voices of those who use the service can help shape it. Through insightful discussions, practical exercises, and shared experiences, participants gained valuable insights into effective strategies for prevention, support, and intervention.
VIPs thoughts on the presented case study
What training do officers get to help victims?
Victims don’t want to talk to the police
There are a lot of barriers to help/support
It would have been better to invest money into support services
What safeguarding can schools do?
Why does the victim have to move?
Do the boroughs have to move them or is it a choice?
The council should have done more to help
Moving people within the surrounding boroughs still carries risks
Make sure there is a strong communication between professionals and victims
When we asked the VIPs on how we can incorporate and embed the perspectives of victims/survivors accessing the service to shape its development, they responded with:
- Make sure there is a strong communication between professionals and victims
- Can the council/social housing association see the case studies so that they can get a better understanding of the people who they are asking them to help
- Having people who have experienced abuse to talk to people who are currently going through it so there is a level of understanding
The Safer London VIP Workshop held during the #16DaysofAction campaign proved to be a vital platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders committed to combating violence against women and girls.
The workshop emphasised the importance of collective action in creating safer communities and highlighted the pivotal role of education, advocacy, and partnership in addressing gender-based violence. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by gender-based violence and contribute to a future where equality, respect, and dignity triumph for all.
If you, or someone you know, are affected by or at risk of domestic abuse or violence – then call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.
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