Caerphilly Youth Forum has highlighted the effects of domestic violence in a bid to make young people aware of the issue.
As part of their campaign, they have publicised the help available to victims of abuse and called on residents not to sit back and allow violence to go unreported.
At weekly meetings the forum discussed issues relating to domestic violence and came up with ways to highlight abuse.
They created a poster describing the characteristics often found in healthy and unhealthy relationships, and documented how victims can get help.
They also designed wrist bands in association with the White Ribbon Campaign, the largest global effort of men working to end male violence against women.
The wrist bands signify a pledge to “never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women”.
Leaflets were produced containing a range of information on different forms and cycles of abuse. The leaflets also contained telephone numbers to contact if you are or know someone who is experiencing domestic abuse.
Youth Forum members also studied a Freedom and Violence course and will share what they learnt in their schools and youth clubs across the county borough.
Cllr Mike Prew, Youth Champion for Caerphilly County Borough said: “The Youth Forum has worked tirelessly to promote their priority issue of domestic violence throughout Caerphilly for the past year. The hard work of the forum is clear to see and I am delighted that this issue has been addressed in such a proactive manner by the forum.”
Cllr Rhianon Passmore, Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning said: “Raising awareness of domestic violence is vital to ensure that people understand how to recognise this form of abuse, which is highly important in reducing cases of this terrible crime.”
As part of the White Ribbon Campaign, a walk took place from Caerphilly Castle on November 20.
The ‘Walk a Mile in Her Shoes’ aimed to bring men, women and children together to combat violence and highlight domestic abuse.
For information on outreach services for domestic violence victims visit www.llamau.org.uk/domestic-abuse.
