Twin Sails in Bridge to glow orange for 16 days for campaign

The bridge will be lit for the duration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

The United Nations (UN) campaign will run from November 25 to December 10. 

The campaign aims to end violence suffered most frequently by women and girls and  uses the hashtag #OrangeTheWorld

Throughout the 16 days, BCP Council and its partners will be operating several events to help raise awareness of the issue, directly tackling gender-based violence while also helping to make victims aware of accessible support.

This support includes several drop-in and community engagement events, as well as online webinars.

Councillor Kieron Wilson, portfolio holder for housing and regulatory services at BCP Council, said: “We are proud to be supporting the UN’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign, which brings to light a prevalent issue globally.

“There is no excuse for any kind of violence within our communities, including gender-based violence.

“The council firmly stands against perpetrators of gender-based violence and is committed to ensuring the region remains a safe place for people to work, live and relax.”

Globally, more than five women were killed every hour by a member of their family in 2021, one in five women aged 20-24 were married before their 18th birthday, and currently one in three women have been subjected to some form of violence in their lifetime.

Kelly Ansell, director for housing and communities at BCP Council, said: “Our teams work tirelessly alongside Dorset Police and other partners to tackle all kinds of violence.

“To tackle a widespread issue such as gender-based violence, it is important that people are aware of its profound harmful impact and come together in putting an end to it. This community approach can also provide a valuable support network for victims.

“I urge residents to attend the campaign’s associated events, where useful information and advice can be accessed.”