Cheshire East Council and its partner agencies hosted its annual White Ribbon event this year virtually.

The event, which took place on 26 November, is part of an international day of awareness to take a stand against violence to women and girls, and highlight the support available for victims, their families and those whose behaviour causes harm.

Across Cheshire East, partners work together to offer a 'whole family' domestic abuse service. This includes specialist services delivered by Cheshire East Council's independent domestic abuse advocates (IDVAs), and the commissioned service myCWA, providing high risk recovery and behaviour change work for all members of the family.

The event was opened with a socially-distanced campaign video organised by myCWA.

Those speaking at the event included Chief Executive Lorraine O'Donnell, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire David Keane, and the Chief Constable Darren Maitland.

The event also featured a number of workshops that covered many elements of domestic abuse.

Survivors of domestic abuse also featured at the event and shared their stories – bravely explaining what it's like to live within an abusive relationship, how they can feel trapped, and how the right response of professionals can empower them to take the steps needed for them to feel safe.

Kate Rose, Head of Safeguarding at Cheshire East Council and chair of the multi-agency Cheshire East Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Partnership, said: "This event has been a triumph, once again.

"Congratulations to everyone who has been involved, particularly the service users who continue to be incredible and brave in sharing their experiences. It makes me proud of the partnership work and confident that the ambition we have to do better is shared.

"What happens behind closed doors doesn't have to stay there. If you, or someone you know, is in a relationship that doesn't feel quite right – I urge you to get in touch."

Councillor Kathryn Flavell, Cabinet Member for Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: "White Ribbon Day is a hugely important date in the Cheshire East calendar, as there is no place or justification for violence against any individual.

"We know that domestic violence has increased this year – not just to women and girls. We want all residents of Cheshire East to feel safe and supported, and to make them aware that help and support is available for when victims and their families need it most.

"By coming together with partners, this event is just one way of educating others about how we can spot the sings of domestic abuse, and help to tackle it in our community."

My CWA deputy chief executive Beverley Wrighton said: "There's been an increase in violence, harassment and abuse towards women during the coronavirus pandemic, so it was even more important to show our support for the White Ribbon movement this year.

"For obvious reasons, we couldn't host our usual face-to-face community gathering, so we came up with the idea of getting our supporters involved in a virtual show of solidarity instead."

If you are affected by domestic abuse, or concerned for someone else, call 0300 123 5101 at any time or visit: www.openthedoorcheshire.org.uk.