A recent survey has found that 100% of polled people in North Lurgan and Drumgask area feel that violence against women is a significant problem locally.
The survey conducted by Belfast-based Community Restorative Justice has been designed to help form the strategy of a public campaign and community event to help build safer communities.
The findings of the survey showed that 100% of participants from the Lurgan and Drumgask areas felt that violence against women was a significant problem locally and that 81% have either personally experienced or know someone who has experienced gender-based abuse or harassment.
The most common forms of abuse identified through the survey include domestic abuse, coercive control, street harassment, sexual harassment.
When asked about the main causes of the abuse, the participants cited “toxic masculinity”, alcohol and drugs”, “lack of education” and “poor relationships and role models”.
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The survey organisers explained that participants also agreed en masse that when victims do speak out they are often met with “silence, doubt or blame” and say “this needs to change”.
In response to the survey, Community Restorative Justice are organising a public campaign and community event, as well as delivering interactive sessions for youth groups, schools, and community organisations to help challenge harmful attitudes and build safer communities.
A recent survey by Ulster University also found – on a broader scale – that 98% of women in Northern Ireland have experienced at least one form of violence or abuse in their lifetime – with half of those experiencing abuse before the age of 11.
Community Restorative Justice are welcoming involvement from the public and community groups to to help them understand the issues and shape real, restorative solutions.
Email melanie@crjireland.org to find out more.
