MEN ACROSS the town are encouraged to dip a tentative toe into their partners shoes on Friday (November 27) to oppose men’s violence against women and girls.
The annual Worcestershire Heels Walk will see local men walk a mile around the Town Centre in women’s shoes to make a public pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against females.
Participants, including Redditch Borough Council leader Bill Hartnett, will don heels and flat shoes alike, setting off from St Stephen’s Church at 2pm.
Participants are asked to arrive at 1.15pm for a pre-brief and refreshments, plasters and encouragement will be supplied by supporters – as will shoes if required.
With over one million female victims of domestic abuse in England and Wales each year, 300,000 sexually assaulted and 60,000 raped each year, Coun Harnett appeals to men across Redditch to come and take a stand with him.
He said: ” We want as many local men as possible to join us on the walk and make a stand against violence against women.
“Domestic and sexual abuse can affect anyone, no matter their age or gender – but the lasting effects of physical violence in an abusive relationship are greater in women.
“Shockingly, two women are killed each week by violent partners or ex-partners.”To register for the walk, email [email protected] with your name, the number of men in your group and, if you can’t supply your own shoes, what size you will need. Ladies who would like to volunteer towards the walk can also do so by contacting the Safer Redditch team.
Anyone who believes they are experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence, or knows someone who might be, can obtain free and confidential advice 24 hours a day from the Worcestershire Women’s Aid Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 980 3331 or the Men’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0327.
Visit http://www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/worcestershire for more information on the Worcestershire campaign.
