Powerful conference addresses serious issue of ending violence against women and girls

by
Staff Reporter
April 7, 2025

“Violence against women and girls is a very serious challenge in our society – and one that affects everyone. It is a problem that is hidden in plain sight and every day impacts the lives of women and girls, in our schools, in our communities, and in our workplaces.

“Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council stand committed to challenging harmful attitudes towards women and girls, and to work to promote a culture of respect and equality. To create a community where women and girls are safe, respected, and empowered. So that every woman and girl can live with dignity, safety and freedom.”

This was the message from the Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage at a recent, hard-hitting conference addressing the serious issue of ending violence against women and girls.

Entitled ‘It’s In Your Hands’, the conference had around 200 attendees and featured a number of high profile speakers who covered topics including coercive control, partner violence, what a healthy relationship should look like and how we can educate everyone in our communities to prevent abuse and harm against women and girls.

There were also interactive sessions where those in attendance could really think about the impact that they can make – as individuals and organisations – to help make the borough a safer place for women and girls.

Speakers included Dr Ngozi Anyadike-Danes, a Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Ulster University, Marcella Leonard MBE and Noel McNally who bravely spoke about his daughter Natalie.

This event was organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and funded by The Executive Office.

For more information on this issue please log onto https://www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/safeguarding/