Violence against women message

The National Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle was lit up in orange to mark the beginning of the UN’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign.

The campaign which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year aims to eliminate violence against women and girls through awareness raising, knowledge sharing and advocacy efforts.

Over 16 days, multiple events are being held by the University of Stirling, Stirling and District Women’s Aid and NHS Forth Valley in addition to Stirling Council which cover a range of topics from domestic abuse to consent and safe sex.

Messaging related to the campaign is being displayed across Stirling Council, and images, messages and statistics are being projected onto the foyer screens at theTolbooth.

The recent‘Don’t Be That Guy’ campaign from Police Scotland is also being cited as an opportunity for men to challenge their own thoughts and attitudes towards women.

Community planning and regeneration convener Councillor Chris Kane said:“The scourge of violence against women and girls is something we all have a role to play in eliminating. While this campaign rightly highlights resources available to those who need them thanks to the fantastic work of stakeholders such as Women’s Aid and NHS Forth Valley; we also want to encourage conversations that make us uncomfortable.

“The recent theme of International Men’s Day focused on building better relationships with women. A lot of men, who if they are being honest with themselves, would admit that this is something that they can and should improve upon.

Stirling Castle will be lit up in orange again on Friday December 10 to mark the conclusion of the 16-day campaign.