Reclaim these Streets event to raise awareness of violence against women and girls

A ‘Reclaim these Streets’ walk will take place in Cleethorpes on Friday, 21 March.

The North East Lincolnshire Community Safety Partnership has organised the walk to raise awareness of violence against women and girls and show that communities can come together to enable change.

Leaving at 7pm, people are asked to meet outside Cleethorpes Leisure Centre at 6.45pm where refreshments will be available. The Community Safety Partnership will be handing out glow sticks to light up the two-mile route and everyone is welcome to attend, although under 14’s must be accompanied by an adult.

“The aim of the night is to raise awareness of violence against women and girls and serve as a reminder that everyone can be part of the solution. In fact men and boys are essential in combatting this problem by speaking out against harm, challenging their peers, and being positive role models” said Victoria Henley, Senior Community Safety Officer.

Violence against women and girls is an umbrella term used to describe behaviours usually committed by men against women, including harassment, stalking, sexual abuse, coercive control and murder.

In 2023/24 violence against women and girls made up 29 per cent of all reported crime in North East Lincolnshire with harassment, assault and stalking being the most commonly experienced offences. Approximately half of these incidents were related to domestic abuse with the other half perpetrated by an acquaintance or stranger.

Cllr Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities said: “It is important for residents to feel safe on the streets of North East Lincolnshire.

“This walk will raise awareness of violence against women and girls and bring it to the forefront of people’s minds. We need to ensure we are all holding ourselves accountable for the safety of everyone around us.”

For more information on the event, please get in touch at nelcsp@nelincs.gov.uk

Support is available for those affected by crime from Victim Support. Visit www.victimsupport.org.uk or call 0808 1689111