White Ribbon Day is annually recognised as the day men show their year-long commitment to ending gender-based violence against women and girls.

As domestic abuse solicitors we’ve seen more violence against women than we’d like. We stand with our communities and all initiatives against violence, and support the White Ribbon campaign to work towards a safer, better world free from inequality and abuse. Marked globally on 25 November, today is an important reminder that we’re all responsible for challenging the attitudes and behaviours that enable violence against women and girls.

Why violence against women?

Violence against women is not confined to any one community, setting, or demographic. It can be physical or psychological, subtle or overt. Much of it remains hidden, unreported, dismissed or minimised.

Some key facts underline the urgency:

-          Around 1 in 4 women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.

-          On average, the police receive a domestic abuse-related call every 30 seconds.

-          Many forms of abuse – coercive control, emotional harm and financial manipulation – are often overlooked.

Rasing awareness of violence is crucial.

What is gender-based violence?

Gender-based violence refers to any form of harm, whether that be physical, sexual, emotional, or economic, inflicted on a person because of their gender. While anyone can experience it, gender-based violence disproportionately affects women and girls. Unfortunately, some society norms that reinforce gender inequality are the root of unequal power dynamics and discrimination that lead to these attitudes towards women and girls.

It includes behaviours such as:

• domestic abuse,
• sexual violence,
• coercive control,
• harassment,
• stalking,
• harmful cultural practices and
• online abuse.

At its core, gender-based violence is a violation of fundamental human rights, undermining safety, autonomy and dignity. Ending this kind of violence requires challenging the attitudes, behaviours and structures that allow it to persist.

What support is available against abuse and violence?

There are legal options to support for people who are subject to violence or abuse. Our domestic abuse solicitors are here to listen, support and protect clients experiencing cases of domestic abuse. The legal options to help protect you include non-molestation orders and occupation orders.

Non-Molestation Orders

A non-molestation order is a type of court order designed to prevent an abuser from:

• using or threatening violence,
• intimidating you or
• contacting you

It can provide vital protection in cases of domestic abuse. They can be applied for quickly by your solicitor and, in urgent cases, without the abuser being notified in advance.

Occupation Orders

An occupation order is another type of court order which sets out who can live in the family home. It can temporarily exclude an abuser from the property to help keep you safe. It does not affect the legal ownership of the home and is usually made for up to six months, offering short-term stability.

Our specialist solicitors support client through every stage of the process.  From assessing whether the order is appropriate, to preparing the application, guiding you through court procedures, and helping put additional safeguards in place. Our team approaches each case with sensitivity, confidentiality and a clear focus on your safety and wellbeing.

How Switalskis can help

Our family and childcare solicitors, see first-hand the devastating impact abuse, coercive control and sexual violence has on survivors and their families. We’re proud advise those who need legal protection and representation and recognise the essential need to prevent violence before it occurs.

At Switalskis, we continue to support the initiatives to end violence against women and girls. By educating young people about respect, consent and healthy relationships through campaigns such as White Ribbon Day, we can support small actions to create meaningful change.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you are not alone. Our specialist teams are here to help with compassion, expertise and confidentiality. Contact our domestic abuse solicitors for advice or support, or reach out to organisations such as Refuge, Women’s Aid or local domestic abuse services.