Croydon Council is calling on residents, partners and local organisations to come together for the 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign running from 25 November to 10 December.

The 16 Days campaign starts on Tuesday 25 November with Croydon’s annual symbolic walk through Croydon town centre. The walk shows solidarity with survivors and highlights the urgent need to end gender-based violence.

A memorial bench will be unveiled dedicated to those who have tragically lost their lives to domestic abuse and gender-based violence in our borough. This will create a lasting tribute and a space for reflection.

This year, Croydon is hosting its first ever Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Conference, at Croydon College. It is on Thursday 27 November and will bring together experts, organisations and survivors to raise awareness both locally and nationally.

The conference will also hear from a member of Croydon’s Expert by Experience Panel – a group of survivors of domestic abuse whose stories and experiences are inspiring change and helping others.

Throughout the 16 days, the Council and partner organisations will deliver free training sessions and workshops for residents, schools and community groups. These sessions will focus on spotting the signs of abuse, supporting victims and challenging harmful behaviours.

Croydon Town Hall will also raise a flag and light up the building in orange, the official colour of the global movement to end violence against women and girls, symbolising hope and solidarity.

For full details of events and to register for training see the Council website.

Challenging misogyny and raising awareness of gender-based violence is part of the Council’s commitment in the Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Delivery Plan 2024–2027.

“Violence against women and girls has no place in Croydon. Through the work of our VAWG Delivery Plan and the 16 Days of Activism we stand together with our partners to protect and empower victims, challenge perpetrators and create a safer borough for all.

“The awareness walk is a great way of coming together to show our support. Whilst the VAWG Conference will inspire us all to commit to doing what we can to end violence against women and girls –not just through words, but through action, learning and supporting those who need it most.”

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon