Plymouth charity launches march to tackle violence against women

A Plymouth-based charity that supports women in recovery has launched a ‘Reclaim the Night’ march to raise awareness of violence against women and girls (VAWG) in the city.

The march, led by Mel Sevieri, community engagement coordinator at the charity Trevi, aims to tackle the growing issue of domestic abuse in Plymouth and inspire change.

Scheduled for Friday, 7 February, during Sexual Violence Awareness Week, the event encourages everyone to unite in demanding safer public spaces and greater support for survivors.

Participants will begin with placard-making at 4pm at Arts University Plymouth, Tavistock Place, before starting the march at 6.15pm.

The event will conclude with empowering speeches and discussions focused on tackling VAWG and fostering a more inclusive and compassionate community.

The march comes at a crucial time for Plymouth, where Trevi have said domestic abuse-related violent crimes have risen by 6.9 per cent in the past year, reaching 3,966 incidents in 2023/24. 

This marks a 5.2 per cent increase over the past five years. 

Statistics from Trevi also show domestic abuse now accounts for 37.4 per cent of all violent crimes and 22.1 per cent of all reported crimes in the city.

Mel Sevieri emphasised the importance of collective action:

‘Plymouth has worked tirelessly over recent years to bring about significant changes the women in our city. However, with VAWG crimes still on the rise in Plymouth, we are eager to see even more progress. Through ‘Reclaim the Night’, a global movement that many are familiar with, we will stand together, support survivors, and reclaim our nights in the hope of creating a brighter and safer future where everyone can live without fear. We are proud of our partnership with the Arts University Plymouth and so grateful to the staff and volunteers who stand alongside us in this fight. Join us and make your voice count!”

‘Reclaim the Night’ marches have been held across the UK for nearly 50 years, originating in the 1970s as a response to curfews imposed on women following violent crimes. 

These events have since become a symbol of resistance to societal expectations that women modify their behaviour for safety.

Today, the movement continues to advocate for safer public spaces and greater accountability in addressing VAWG.

In Plymouth, the march builds on a series of events held in recent years, including those inspired by the events of 2021, to renew the city’s commitment to a safer future for everyone.

Trevi invites all members of the community to participate in the march and stand against violence against women and girls. 

To find out more or register your attendance, visit Eventbrite or contact Mel Sevieri directly at mel.sevieri@trevi.org.uk.

For more information on support services available for victims of domestic abuse, visit www.trevi.org.uk/endvawg.