A blog written By ARC NWC Health and Care Across the Lifecourse (HaCAL) Public Advisor Lead, DORCAS AKEJU, OBE

The 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence, a global campaign to raise awareness about gender-based violence, begins on November 25th— the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women— and concludes on December 10th, the International Day of Human Rights. These days are a critical reminder of the ongoing struggle to end violence against women and girls worldwide. This year, the United Nations has launched the UNITE campaign under the urgent theme: “Every 10 minutes a woman is killed, UNITE to end violence against women.” The campaign calls on global communities to join forces in the fight against all forms of violence directed at women, which is an issue that knows no borders or boundaries.
The 16 Days of Action provide an important opportunity to reflect on the significant impact of domestic violence on individuals, families, and communities. From physical abuse to coercive control, the effects of domestic violence reverberate through every aspect of life. It’s a time to raise awareness, demand justice, and mobilise for change. This year’s campaign is particularly poignant, as it challenges society to consider how widespread and urgent the problem is, with the shocking statistic that a woman is killed every 10 minutes somewhere in the world.

At ARC NWC, Dorcas Akeju, OBE is the lead for the Subtheme of Maternal and Family Health in the Health and Care Across Life-Course (HaCAL) theme and has been a passionate advocate for raising awareness of domestic violence and its far-reaching effects on families. Dorcas, who is also an active Soroptimist, participated in a significant event held at Lime Street Station to highlight the importance of the 16 Days of Activism. The event, organised by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) under the leadership of Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell, aimed to draw attention to the prevalence of domestic violence and encourage individuals and organisations to stand together in solidarity.
The day included various activities to support the cause, including a powerful march on November 23rd, which was organised by SAVERA, a group dedicated to raising awareness of forced marriage and other harmful practices. This march was designed to shed light on these issues, which often disproportionately affect women and girls from ethnic minority backgrounds, and to show solidarity with those affected. The day concluded with a moving vigil at Derby Square, where participants gathered from 5.30 to 6.30 pm to remember those who have lost their lives to domestic violence. The vigil was marked by a heartfelt speech from Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell, who stressed the importance of continued action to end domestic violence and support survivors.

Domestic violence affects not only the individual victim but the entire family, creating lasting emotional, physical, and social harm. Children who witness domestic violence are particularly vulnerable, often experiencing trauma that can affect their future wellbeing and development. The consequences of domestic violence ripple through communities, leading to economic hardship, social isolation, and mental health challenges.
The 16 Days of Action serve as a reminder that we all have a role to play in eradicating domestic violence. Whether through advocacy, support for survivors, or community engagement, every effort counts in the fight to protect the rights of women and girls and ensure that everyone can live a life free from violence and fear.

“IT IS TIME TO ACT.”

As we reflect on the campaign and its message, it is clear that this is a critical moment for action. We must work together— as individuals, as communities, and as a society— to stand up against violence in all its forms. The time for silence and inaction has passed. It is time to act.

DORCAS AKEJU, OBE