16 Days of Activism — Standing Together Against Gender-Based Violence
From 25 November to 10 December each year, the world unites for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This global campaign shines a light on the pervasive, systemic violence that women, girls, trans and non-binary people face daily — and calls on all of us to take action.
At Southside Housing, we believe that safe and secure homes extend beyond bricks and mortar. They mean freedom from fear, dignity, and access to support. During these 16 days, and always, we commit to raising awareness, offering support, and amplifying survivors’ voices.
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Globally, 140 women and girls are killed every day by intimate partners or family members. UN Women UK
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In 2023, 85,000 women and girls were intentionally killed; 60% of those were by a partner or relative. UN Women UK
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In the UK, on average, a woman is killed by a man every three days. UN Women UK
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60% of homicides of women globally are committed by someone close to them. UN Women UK
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In the UK, disabled women are more than twice as likely to experience domestic abuse than non-disabled women. UN Women UK
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Black women experiencing domestic abuse are 14% less likely to be referred to specialist support by police than white women. UN Women UK
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LGBTQ+ women, trans people, and non-binary people also experience disproportionate levels of intimate partner violence. UN Women UK
These figures expose a harsh reality: gender-based violence is not rare, it is widespread — cutting across class, ethnicity, ability, immigration status, and sexuality.
Our Key Messages During This Campaign
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#NoExcuse — violence is never acceptable.
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“Stop. Support. Report.” — if you see harassment or violence, intervene safely, offer help, and support reporting. UN Women UK
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Safe Spaces Now Training: UN Women is opening up bystander intervention training to the public and organisations so more people can act safely and proactively. UN Women UK
Support & Help — You Are Not Alone
If you — or someone you know — is experiencing abuse, here are some key sources of support in the UK (and local services you may refer tenants to):
| Service | What They Offer | Contact Info / Links |
|---|---|---|
| Scottish Domestic Abuse & Forced Marriage Helpline | 24/7 confidential support, advice, safety planning | 0800 027 1234 |
| Rape Crisis Scotland | Specialist support for survivors of sexual violence | 08088 01 03 02 |
| Refuge – National Domestic Abuse Helpline | Free, confidential advice and refuge referral | 0808 2000 247 / online chat |
| Rape Crisis (Glasgow and Clyde) | Specialist support for sexual violence survivors | 08088 00 00 14 |
| Women’s Aid | Local domestic violence services and resources | https://www.womensaid.org.uk/ |
| Scottish Women’s Rights Centre | Legal advice and information services for survivors | 08088 010 789 |
Tips if you are supporting someone: believe them, listen without judgment, help them make their own decisions, and support them in accessing professional help
These 16 days are not the endpoint — they are a powerful reminder that change is ongoing. Together, let us resolve to do more — to speak more, intervene more, support more — so that everyone has the right to live free from fear.