By India Thompson
Last year around 508 cases of sexual abuse were reported in Hackney alone throughout 2019, signaling a possible pandemic rise in violent crimes in the borough.
During the latter half of 2019, bus routes across Hackney and Islington were marred by reports of women being targeted for unwanted sexual advances and touching whilst onboard.
Sexual Abuse and Violence Awareness Week, 3 to 9 February, will introduce a brand new social media campaign through promoting the hashtag ‘#ITSNOTOK’ which aims to eliminate the stigma victims may feel when coming forward with their stories.
A VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls) free course will take place on Cecil Road, E1 on fifth February, providing skills and practical tools for supporting survivors such as identifying the impact of sexual violence and trauma as well as highlighting specialist support.
‘Light Up The Night’ is also taking place tomorrow on the Millennium Bridge, encouraging people to bring neon lights, glow sticks, torches and anything else that fits the description to light up the night sky for all the victims of sexual abuse.
brilliant piece- drawing attention to important problem