Around one hundred people gathered outside the University of the West of Scotland [UWS] last night to take part in an annual walk to call for the end of violence against women.
Co-ordinated by Renfrewshire Rising – a group that raises awareness and gives support to victims of gender based violence – the ‘Reclaim the Night’ march aims to raise awareness and calls for the end of violence against women.
The group left UWS and marched along the high street lead by a single drummer on route to Dunn Square, passing though Paisley cross.
The march, set for 6pm, never got started until around 6.15pm where the participants headed along the pavement on the side of the public library. The police stopped traffic to allow the marchers the right of way as the public looked on.
Marchers chanted, blew whistles and the drummer brought the public to a stand still.
Passing the Paisley cenotaph with the giant winter fest amusements pumping out Christmas Carols, the marchers crossed the road aided by the police for Dunn square, where Provost Lorraine Cameron, with her portable PA, gave a short speech.
Afterwards, everyone stood silent for 2 minutes as a mark of respected in memory of women who have lost their lives due to violence, under the shadow of the town hall clock.
A wreath of white ribbons was placed on the riverside fence before photographers snapped those promoting the end to domestic violence and fairness for all and bring the arch to an end.
Provost Cameron said: “Renfrewshire Council is continuing to work to develop the area as a safe place to live and work in.
“Our participation in the 16 Days of Action campaign brings the issue of violence against women into the public eye and we must ensure people recognise that any kind of violence is unacceptable.
“It’s been fantastic to see the number of people who have come out tonight to support the cause. We are reinforcing the message to everyone that gender-based assault will not be tolerated.
She added : “Everyone has the right to be safe in their own community at any time of day or night and to be able to live their lives without fear.
“The recent #MeToo social media phenomenon and the widely publicised outpouring of sexual assault allegations only emphasise the fact that events like this are important. “
Anyone suffering from domestic violence can get help via two national helplines, which are available 24/7 and are free to call from a landline.
- Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 027 1234
- Abused Men in Scotland Helpline – 0808 800 0024
Locally, Women and Children First can be contacted on 0300 300 0345.
View the full set of photographs on David Cameron’s Flickr site by clicking here.