24th November 2025
Today marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) affects 1 in 12 women and girls every year and, in rural areas, domestic abuse can last 25% longer than in urban areas before it is reported. Due to factors such as social isolation, women and girls in rural settings may be less likely to report abuse, with rural women and girls significantly less likely to seek support than those living in urban areas. :contentReference[oaicite:0]
Violence Against Women and Girls covers a wide range of crimes and behaviours, including domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, harassment, coercive control, so-called honour-based abuse and online abuse. While anyone can experience these crimes, women and girls are disproportionately affected. :contentReference[oaicite:1]
ACTion with Communities in Cumbria (ACT), the rural issues and community development charity for Cumbria, is helping to raise awareness of the support available for rural women and girls who have experienced violence, abuse or harassment. To support this work, ACT has produced a series of downloadable posters highlighting local support services available across different areas of Cumbria. These resources are free to download, print and share. :contentReference[oaicite:2]
We encourage community organisations, village halls, parish councils, local groups and residents to help raise awareness by displaying and sharing these materials. Increasing awareness of support services can make a real difference to someone experiencing abuse or seeking help for themselves or someone they know. :contentReference[oaicite:3]
Concerned for yourself or someone else?
If a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
You can also:
- Report incidents to Cumbria Police online or by calling 101.
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
- Access specialist support services through local domestic abuse and safeguarding organisations.
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Why awareness matters
Violence Against Women and Girls has been identified as a major community safety priority across Cumbria. Local agencies, community organisations and support services continue to work together to challenge harmful attitudes, improve safety, encourage reporting and ensure that survivors receive the support they need. :contentReference[oaicite:5]
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women marks the beginning of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs from 25th November to 10th December each year. The campaign seeks to raise awareness, challenge attitudes and mobilise action to end violence against women and girls in all its forms. :contentReference[oaicite:6]
Please help us share these resources and ensure that anyone affected by violence, abuse or harassment knows that support is available.
