Health & Wellbeing
New campaign challenges perceptions of sexual harassment and abuse Coventry Rape Sexual Abuse Centre (CRASAC) has launched a campaign which aims to raise awareness of the scale of sexual violence in society. Marking the start of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence, Call It Out is a digital animation which challenges sexist views and highlights the wider impacts of rape culture.
More than five million women in the UK have been raped or sexually assaulted. One in five women over the age of 16 has experienced some form of sexual violence – and only around 15 per cent of those report it to the police.*
Hundreds of people brave the cold to tackle homelessness crisis
CRASAC has been campaigning to challenge misogynistic views and rape culture within society for more than 40 years. The charity hopes that this campaign will go some way towards changing perceptions, increase understanding, and reduce the stigma around talking about sexual violence and abuse.
Hundreds of individuals came together at Millennium Point, defying freezing temperatures to participate in the annual Sleepout, a fundraising event organised by St Basils homelessness charity.
Using impactful messaging in relatable language, the animation encourages everyone to be an upstander and call out abusive behaviours when they see them.
Jenni Muskett, Deputy CEO at CRASAC, said: “Many people struggle to find a way to call out difficult and uncomfortable situations. We hope that this campaign will particularly encourage men and boys to challenge the behaviour of others and provide an opportunity for discussion. “Unfortunately, we live in a society that gives permission to perpetrators, and which focuses on victim blaming and perpetuates a cycle of abuse against women and girls. To change that cycle we need to create a culture where it’s safe to stand up and address unacceptable behaviour.” *[Office for National Statistic and National Crime Survey England & Wales] It is funded by the Citizen Community Fund with thanks to Jade Studios for creative development and Push Records for studio recording.
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The event aimed to raise crucial funds to combat the growing homelessness crisis, intensified by rising rents and the escalating cost of living. The overwhelming response showcased a united front against homelessness, with participants experiencing a night outdoors on Friday, 1st December to empathise with young people facing housing insecurity. The generosity of supporters was evident, with Millennium Point graciously providing the venue free of charge, Schumacher Packaging again donating 500 cardboard boxes for makeshift shelters, and the West Midlands Fire Brigade brass band filling the air with festive tunes.
The support extended beyond a cardboard roof over their heads, with the charity Langar Aid providing warm, nourishing curries with freshly baked bread to the fundraisers throughout the night. Despite the biting cold, spirits remained high. Barrie Hodge, Head of Fundraising and Communications at St Basils, said: "The Sleepout embodies solidarity. Each participant, charity partner, and supporter are contributing to our vital work preventing youth homelessness. “Each year we support nearly 4,000 young people in the Midlands. This event is not just a fundraiser; it's a powerful statement against the homelessness crisis gripping our communities. The money raised ensures St Basils stays at the heart of those communities as a safety net for those vulnerable young people who need us."
The event has already raised an impressive £66,000, with additional contributions expected in the coming weeks. Every pound raised goes towards St Basils' comprehensive efforts to prevent youth homelessness, providing accommodation, education, and support for vulnerable young people. A Sleepout participant added: "Sleeping out tonight is a stark reminder of the struggles many face daily. The rising rents and cost-of-living crisis make it tougher for vulnerable young people. I bought my home over 20 years ago. I simply couldn’t afford to do that now with the soaring property prices, and the cost of rental properties in the Midlands are so high. I don’t know how young people are expected to live. If you haven’t got family who can support you or you come from care or an abusive home, how do you survive? Thank goodness for organisations like St Basils.”
As the Sleepout concludes, the message is clear: it takes a community to end homelessness. St Basils continues to welcome donations which can be made at https://stbasils.org.uk/donate-2/ www.cw-chamber.co.uk
