Communities and campaigners march to Reclaim the Night

Hundreds of people marched through Paisley town centre to call for an end to violence against women and gender-based violence.

Local people and campaigners carrying placards and banners marched to Reclaim the Night for women and young people. They started from outside University of the West of Scotland down Paisley High Street to Dunn Square.

The event was part of the United Nation’s international 16 Days of Action for the Elimination of Violence against Women campaign that has been marked in Renfrewshire for the last 17 years.

It included a memorial service for all those who have lost their lives to violence, with a wreath made by the Paisley Soroptimists laid by Renfrewshire Provost’s Lorraine Cameron, along with a short speech and song.

Afterwards, people went to the Wynd Centre for hot drinks and conversation.

The event was organised by Renfrewshire Council, Barnardo’s, and local support groups and campaigners.

Provost Cameron said: “Events like Reclaim the Night are important to raise our voices that assaults and violence against women and young people is not acceptable, and that everyone should be safe from gender-based violence.

“It was inspiring to see so many people – women, men and especially our young people – marched together as one. These voices are signalling the change we need in our society, and I thank everyone who came along to the event.

“Renfrewshire Council continues to work with communities and partners to make sure it is a safe place to live, work, study and visit. Women and young people should never be afraid to be out at night or, live with the threat of sexual assault and harassment.

Anyone suffering from domestic violence can get help via two national helplines. Calls from a landline are free and the lines are open 24 hours a day.

Scottish Domestic Abuse – 0800 027 1234

Abused Men in Scotland –03300 949 395

The Council’s Women and Children First team – 0300 300 0345

Visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/2123/Domestic-abuse for more help and support.