As Lewisham marks the 16 Days of Action and takes part in the global White Ribbon campaign, the Labour led Council sends a clear and united message that violence against women and girls has no place in our community.
In her statement, Councillor Oana Olaru-Holmes reaffirmed the Labour Council’s commitment to protecting women and girls and challenging the conditions that allow abuse to continue. She said, “To every woman and girl who has suffered abuse, harassment or violence: we see you, we believe you, and we stand with you.” Her words reflect the deep commitment that Labour has to supporting survivors and ensuring their voices are heard.
Lewisham Council continues to work closely with the police, specialist services and community organisations to strengthen reporting pathways, improve safeguarding, and ensure that survivors receive timely and effective support. Labour is focused not only on responding to violence but on preventing it and transforming the systems that have failed too many for too long.
The White Ribbon campaign and the 16 Days of Action offer important moments to reflect and to stand together. The Council’s commitment extends far beyond this period. As Councillor Olaru-Holmes stated, creating a borough where women and girls feel safe “is sustained work, and we will not rest until violence is eliminated once and for all.”
Lewisham is united in saying enough is enough. Women and girls deserve safety, dignity, respect and freedom in their homes, their relationships, on our streets and in every public space. Under Labour leadership, we will continue working tirelessly to build a safer and fairer borough for all.
