Stirling Castle will be lit up in orange to mark the end of the campaign in the same way that the National Wallace Monument and the Castle shone brightly in orange at the start of the campaign. The 2021 theme of Orange The World: End Violence Against Women Now saw landmarks across Scotland and beyond illuminated to show commitment and raise awareness.
Throughout the 16 day period, Stirling Council and its community planning partners facilitated and supported a programme of events from stakeholders including the University of Stirling, Stirling District Women’s Aid, Forth Valley Rape Crisis and NHS Forth Valley. These events have offered support, learning opportunities and guidance on issues ranging from domestic abuse, consent, safe sex and women’s experiences of the justice system.
Community Planning and Regeneration Committee Convener, Cllr Chris Kane said: “The range of events which have taken place over the last 16 days are a demonstrable testament to the work that is done by the Council and partner organisations to support women and girls at risk of violence and shines a light on the work that still has to be done to achieve an equally safe society. I’d like to wholeheartedly thank everybody involved with the planning and facilitating of events which took place over the 16 days.
“Stirling’s Gender Based Violence Partnership continues to evaluate progress in line with our local Gender Based Violence Strategy; and we remain resolute in our commitment to achieving a society which challenges the behaviours that perpetuate violence against women and girls whilst offering services and interventions to those who need them.”
Nearly 1 in 3 women have been abused in their lifetime. In times of crises, the numbers rise, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and recent humanitarian crises, conflicts and climate disasters.
Vice Convener, Cllr Scott Farmer said: “The 16 Days campaign has allowed stakeholders to share key messages and signpost resources to those who need them whilst also reinforcing everyone’s accountability and responsibility to eradicate gender based violence. I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to everybody involved in putting together such an important events programme.
“The recent theme of International Men’s Day of building better relationships with women along with Police Scotland’s powerful ‘Don’t Be That Guy’ campaign should give pause for thought on how men in Stirling and across Scotland should consider how their attitudes and behaviours towards women and girls; could and should be improved to tackle gender based violence in all its forms.”