The annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence begins this week, marking a global movement to challenge violence, support survivors and promote safer, more equal communities. Running from 25 November to 10 December, the campaign highlights the urgent need to prevent domestic abuse, sexual violence and all forms of gender-based harm.
West Lothian’s local commitment
West Lothian takes a zero-tolerance approach to gender-based violence. Through the work of the West Lothian Gender Based Violence Committee, local partners are working together to support victims, strengthen prevention, and help communities play an active role in keeping people safe.
Our local vision is clear:
Individuals, families and communities at risk of or affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence should have access to the right support, at the right time, to minimise harm and promote healthy relationships.
This work is underpinned by three key objectives:
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Offering help earlier
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Supporting professionals to support victims
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Working together as a multi-agency partnership
Aims of the campaign in West Lothian
Throughout the 16 Days, partners across the area will be raising awareness and encouraging action. The campaign aims to:
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Highlight that gender-based violence is everyone’s business
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Raise awareness among the public and professionals
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Promote a zero-tolerance approach across our communities
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Strengthen multi-agency working
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Ensure people know how to access support locally
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Engage communities through a range of communication channels
Taking action locally
During the 16 Days, partner organisations across West Lothian will share information, stories, training opportunities and awareness-raising messages on a range of topics including:
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The launch of the West Lothian Gender Based Violence Population Survey
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White Ribbon Day and the “spot the white ribbon” campaign
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Support from the Domestic and Sexual Assault Team (DASAT)
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Children’s rights and the impact of domestic abuse
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Support for Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and Refugee communities
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LGBTQ+ experiences of domestic abuse
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Trauma-informed practice
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Economic abuse and coerced debt
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Men and boys’ role in ending violence
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Disability and barriers to accessing support
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Community safety and public space concerns
A full timetable of West Lothian activities and events can be found through the Health & Social Care Partnership’s 16 Days calendar.
Support and information
If you or someone you know is affected by gender-based violence, support is available:
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DASAT (Domestic and Sexual Assault Team) – support for adults and children
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West Lothian Women’s Aid – support, advocacy and safe accommodation
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Police Scotland – 999 in an emergency, or 101 for non-emergencies
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Rape Crisis Scotland – 08088 01 03 02
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Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline – 0800 027 1234
Working together to end gender-based violence
Violence against women and girls is a human rights violation that continues to devastate lives. West Lothian’s partners remain committed to working together, improving responses, strengthening prevention and ensuring survivors receive compassionate, effective support.
We invite everyone in West Lothian to take part in the campaign, share information, attend events and help build communities where everyone can live free from violence.
