Violence against women and girls (VAWG)
Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in our world today and remains largely unreported due to the silence, stigma and shame surrounding it.
The term VAWG encompasses a wide range of harms, including:
- domestic violence and abuse
- sexual violence (including rape)
- sexual exploitation
- sexual harassment
- stalking
- prostitution and trafficking
- female genital mutilation (FGM)
- forced marriage
- honour-based violence
- faith-based abuse.
Who commits VAWG?
The vast majority of gender-based violence is carried out by men against women and girls but men and boys can also be victims of gender-based violence.
Get help and support
If you're in immediate danger call the police on 999
If you cannot speak, press 55 when you are prompted and listen for more instructions. You will be able to conduct your whole call in silence if needed.
If you are deaf or cannot communicate verbally you can register with the emergency SMS service. Text REGISTER to 999. A text will then be sent with instructions on what to do next. This should be done when it is safe so that the emergency services can be reached via text when someone is actually in danger.
If you are not in immediate danger there are a number of other ways to get the help and support you need:
- Derbyshire Police, you can report online or telephone 101.
- Karma Nirvana offers support for victims of 'honour-based' abuse. Their helpline is free and confidential and open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm 0800 5999 247
- SV2 offers support to victims of sexual abuse and violence in Derbyshire. You can access their services online or by calling their advice line on 01773 746 115
Female genital mutilation (FGM)
If you are concerned that a child may be at risk of FGM you should contact the NSPCC helpline on 0800 028 3550 or email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.
Help and advice about FGM can also be found by contacting FORWARD on 0208 960 4000.