This Friday (29 November), Bedford Borough Council is calling on the community to come together for a minute’s silence to honour the women whose lives have been lost to male violence as part of the #TooManyNames event.
It is just one aspect of 16 Days of Action against Gender-based Violence (GBV), a global campaign running from today (25 November) until Tuesday, 10 December, Human Rights Day.
In October, Bedfordshire Police received 663 reports of domestic abuse, bringing the total of reports since the start of the year to more than 5,000.
Bedfordshire Police say that in the last year, their solved rate for domestic violence has increased by six per cent, and they say they continue to drive the best possible outcomes for victims and target those responsible for these behaviours.
During the 16 day period there will be enhanced police activity throughout the Borough, with officers carrying out additional checks on offenders who have been handed protection orders against them.
There will also be public engagements held across the county, with police joining partners to raise awareness of domestic abuse.
Cllr Jane Walker (Conservative), Portfolio Holder for Valuing Families: Children’s Services, stated, “Violence against women and girls is a devastating issue that touches far too many lives.
“The #TooManyNames event serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of GBV and the urgent need for collective action. We encourage everyone to attend this event and stand in solidarity with survivors, their families, and all those impacted by GBV.”
This free, community event will be held simultaneously across three Bedfordshire locations in the Harpur Centre in Bedford, at the Mall in Luton and at Grove House Gardens in Dunstable.
Everyone is welcome to join on Friday, 29 November, at the Harpur Centre from 10.30am to 11am. The events will include a moment of silence to honour the victims and conclude with information about local and national support services for those affected by GBV.
GBV, including domestic abuse, isn’t just a women’s issue. It impacts everyone – friends, family members, colleagues. Statistics show that one in four women and one in six men experience some form of domestic abuse in their lifetime.
Throughout the 16-day campaign, Bedford Borough Council and its partners aim to:
- Raise awareness about all forms of GBV.
- Empower victims to seek help and support.
- Encourage bystanders to intervene and challenge harmful behaviours.
