Cllr Lauren Kendall has welcomed the launch of the Night Safe Charter by Hospitality Ulster and White Ribbon NI
"The Green Party NI representative for Holywood and Clandeboye said, 'I am heartened to see the roll out of the Women's Night Safe Charter by Hospitality Ulster and White Ribbon NI. It represents one more important step towards valuing and protecting all women and girls in our community.
We have seen horrific attacks on women and girls in Northern Ireland. The Women's Night Safety Charter represents a further move away from the culture of victim blaming to victim believing, one of collective responsibility for safety. I have no doubt hospitality venues and businesses in Northern Ireland will step up and sign up. We have seen good uptake and roll out of other awareness raising initiatives such as 'Ask for Angela' across venues which is also welcome.
However, if we are serious about protecting women and girls, we need a working government to ensure the necessary funds are provided to fully implement the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy, and to support the vital work of organisations in our community and voluntary sector who tirelessly protect and advocate for women on the ground every single day.
I urge anyone that has been a victim of crime or abuse or if you are worried about someone, please report to PSNI or support organisation Nexus, Rape Crisis NI, Victim Support NI, Womens Aid, or call the 24 hour domestic and sexual abuse helpline on 0808 802 1414."
ENDS