SOUTH Ayrshire Council has announced it is supporting the '16 Days of Action' campaign to end violence against women.

The initiative takes place every year, and starts on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on Monday, November 25, and ends on Human Rights Day on Tuesday, December 10.

The campaign aims to tackle violence against women and change attitudes and behaviour at all levels, and encourages people to acknowledge, discuss and work together to drive change.

Councillor Laura Brennan-Whitefield, chair of the Violence Against Women Partnership, said: "The 16 Days of Action is an opportunity to reach out to as many people as possible to raise awareness of domestic abuse.

"It's essential that women know that there is support available, even though it might be hard to take those first few steps.

"We are committed to working with our partners to show our support to anyone affected by abuse."

The council's Thriving Communities team, in partnership with the South Ayrshire Violence Against Women Partnership, has organised a variety of events in support of the campaign over the duration of the 16 days.

These include violence prevention workshops, community play screenings, informative webinars, and the popular Reclaim the Night Walk, which will take place on Tuesday, November 26.

Councillor Hugh Hunter, South Ayrshire Council's portfolio holder for health and social care, said: "The 16 Days of Action initiative is an important annual event which enables us to raise awareness and provide much-needed support to those in need.

"As a society, we must continue to show our commitment to helping those who may be vulnerable or are experiencing abuse in any form.

"We will continue to work with our partners to support as many people as possible and help change lives for the better."

You can find a full schedule of events and more information on our website: https://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/article/40242/South-Ayrshire-Violence-Against-Women-Partnership.