Council collects items for the women living in refuge to mark ‘16 days of action’.

Make-up brushes and cosmetics, perfumes and body sprays, shower gels, bubble baths and skincare – just a selection of items donated by council staff to the borough’s Women’s Aid refuge to mark the international ’16 Days of Action’.

The global ‘days of action’ end today – December 10-  on what is Human Rights Day across the world. Every year the action days start on White Ribbon Day – November 25, to raise awareness of violence against women and girls.

According to UN Women one in three women globally have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence. In North East Lincolnshire, the Women’s Aid refuge supported 79 survivors last year.

As part of the 16 days of action, employees at North East Lincolnshire Council gathered donations to give to the women at the refuge.

Denise, Chief Executive of North East Lincolnshire Women’s Aid explained:

“We know that leaving a relationship with an abusive partner is the most dangerous time for a victim of domestic abuse, and this is why we find that the women we support have often left with nothing more than the clothes on their backs.

“One woman told us that a bottle of deodorant we had given her felt like such a big gesture because she had so little.

“We are very appreciative of every donation we are given and want to thank the Council for their kindness.”

Cllr Stan Shreeve, Portfolio Holder for Health, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care added: “At such a difficult time for these women it is important for them to have belongings that are a little bit of comfort.

“The 16 days of action are a great opportunity for us to raise awareness of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls, and the amazing support that is available in North East Lincolnshire.”

To further support Women’s Aid, the charity shops are a great place to start, these can be found on Hainton Square, Grimsby Road, Second Avenue (Nunsthorpe), and Wingate Parade (Willows).

If you have been affected by domestic abuse or violence against women and girls and want support and advice, ring the Domestic Abuse Services on 01472 575757 or visit their new hub at 15 Wellowgate, Grimsby, DN32 0RA.