ACTION PLAN TO TACKLE VIOLENCE AND ABUSE Taking action to keep women safe

Tackling violence against women

Ending male violence against women and ensuring women’s safety in public places have been pushed into sharp focus after the tragic double murder of sisters Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman in Fryent Country Park in 2020 and other high-profile murders of women, by men, across the UK.

The council is working hard to address women’s safety when out and about in ‘‘ Brent, particularly to allow our residents to feel safer when they are out at night. ‘‘

Councillor Promise Knight, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Engagement

The Met Police and council are working to improve women’s safety, to prevent harm and make a positive difference to the women who experience violence or threats.

The action to end Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) is part of an action plan that focusses on tackling all forms of violence and abuse that disproportionately affects women and girls. Targeted support to victims, survivors and perpetrators of violence and abuse is also provided under the plan.

Despite the tragic and high profile murders, in 2019 and 2020, there was a 5.4% decrease in reported sexual offences and a 3.6% decrease in reported domestic abuse with injury offences in Brent when compared to the previous year.

Brent is part of the Mayor of London’s Women’s Night Safety Charter working with nighttime venues, such as bars and restaurants, to increase the safety of female customers and staff.

Cllr Promise Knight, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Engagement, said: “The council is working hard to address women’s safety when out and about in Brent, particularly to allow our residents to feel safer when they are out at night. The ‘Good Guys Guide’ is a set of simple steps that men should take to play a part in the wider issues of tackling male violence against women.”

Tell us about your experiences and ideas on improving the safety of women and girls in public spaces by visiting www.brent.gov.uk/ domesticabuseandvawg. For help and support ring the National Domestic Violence Helpline (Freephone) 0808 2000 247

In addition, the council’s Community Safety team has developed free online training sessions for pubs, bars and restaurants across the borough to help their staff spot vulnerable women who may need help when they are out. Find out more by emailing community.safety@brent.gov.uk.

Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman

Good Guys Guide

A set of simple rules - the ‘Good Guys Guide’ - highlights how men can help to make women feel safer on the streets.

1

Don’t approach her – If you can see she is safe, avoid talking to her

Don’t walk behind her – Slow down and show you’re not following her

Cross the street – Give her as much room as possible

Hood down hands out – Show you have nothing to hide from her Don’t run close to her – Or say “left” or “right” to announce you’re overtaking

Talk on the phone – Show her you’re doing your own thing and call up a friend

Educate your mates - They are good guys too. Share this guide and let’s make the streets feel safer for everyone