This in from the council about last week’s march. Ed
Over 100 people marched through the streets of Newport at the Isle of Wight’s first Reclaim the Night event.
The march took place on Thursday 25 November and was officially launched by Isle of Wight Councillors Roger Mazillius and Dawn Cousins.
They cut a white ribbon (to coincide with White Ribbon Day) and led the group around the streets of Newport before finishing in St Thomas’ Square for a rally and candle lit vigil.
Many organisations took part
The Fat Samba group added to the atmosphere of the event by performing in the square in the lead up to the march.
As well as members of the general public, those taking part included street pastors, members of Unison, representatives from the Isle of Wight Rugby Club, the fire service, police, NHS and local charities and voluntary organisations. The march passed the Samaritans building, which had a stand set up and passed leaflets out to those taking part.
Dignitary spoke at rally
Following the march a rally took place in Newport Minster where a number of speakers addressed those who took part in the march.
The Isle of Wight’s High Sheriff Peter Kingston spoke first, emphasising that violence has no place in society and that people have a right to feel safe in their communities. He was followed by Stuart May of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service speaking about the role of the emergency services in tackling domestic abuse and how communities should work together to rid society of this hidden violence.
Youth council gave support
Speaking about the impact of domestic abuse on young people Ben Yates, Chair of the Isle of Wight Youth Council, shared some powerful statistics from a survey undertaken by the NSPCC showing that violence in teenage relationships is more common than people think. He was joined by another young person, Chloe Gwinnett, who spoke passionately about the lasting impact on young victims and education being a key element in empowering young people, children and adults to break the cycle of abuse.
Cllr Cousins, IW Council Cabinet Member for Children and Young People concluded the speeches by speaking about children, often the forgotten victims of domestic abuse. She revealed that on the Island 50% of children on a Child Protection Plan have been affected by domestic abuse.
Candle lit vigil
A candle lit vigil led by Rev Fessey provided an opportunity for people to remember those affected by domestic abuse and light candles for loved ones.
Fleur Gardiner, Isle of Wight Council Domestic Abuse Coordinator, said: “The event was a great success and I am really pleased that so many people ventured out on such a cold November evening to march against domestic violence. By raising awareness through events such as Reclaim the Night we hope that more victims will come forward to seek help and that communities will work closer together to rid society of such abuse.”
Cllr Dawn Cousins, said: “As a community we have a responsibility to ensure our children are protected from abuse and violence and that they have the opportunity to grow up feeling safe. The march and rally highlighted issues here on the Isle of Wight and showed victims that support is available through the combined work of the Island’s agencies and local charities.”
Image: © Reclaim the Night
