Councillor urges abuse survivors to reach out for support, marks start of worldwide gender violence campaign

Councillor Sue Farmer, cabinet member for children, young people and families, marked the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign in an announcement to full council on Thursday.

She told the chamber: “16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence is a national campaign which commenced on Tuesday and will run until December 10.

“Digital tools are increasingly being used to stalk, harass and abuse people. These acts don’t just happen online, but they can often lead to things like coercion, stalking, physical abuse, and even death. Although the 16 days of activism is an international campaign to end violence against women and girls, digital abuse, and all forms of abuse, also affect men and boys.

“I have this message to the residents of Doncaster, if you are experiencing domestic or sexual abuse, or any form of violence, abuse, or harassment, whether you are male or female, there is support available for you.

“You can contact the police directly, contact the domestic abuse hub or speak to a trusted professional who can help you access the support you need. Remember, you are not alone, and we are here to help you.”

Cllr Farmer also revealed she had attended the Doncaster Violence against Women and Girls annual vigil last week, marking International Day of Eliminating Violence Towards Women and Girls.

16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence is a UN Women campaign demanding a future where every woman and girl can live free from violence and fear.

The 2025 campaign is focussed on the various forms of digital abuse faced by survivors every day.

The campaign website reveals one in three women experience gender-based violence in their lifetime.

Up to 58 per cent of women are said to experience digital violence and over 90 per cent of deepfake videos created online are sexual images of women.