Violence and abuse in our communities is often the result of deeper social, cultural, legal and economic factors. By identifying the factors at play, it is possible to predict its occurrence and understand how to prevent it.
From 25 November to 10 December, the world commemorates 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. The annual campaign calls on individuals to take a stand against abuse and increase awareness about the negative impact of violence and abuse on women and children.
WHAT IS ABUSE?
Abuse is any form of harmful behaviour against another individual. It can be physical, sexual, verbal or psychological. This past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on society and the economy. It also saw an alarming increase in violence against women.
COMMON SIGNS OF ABUSE
An abusive partner tries to control your life by deciding where you go, checking your phone messages, accusing you of cheating, insulting you and embarrassing you in front of others. They may also incorrectly assume that if you consented to a sexual act in the past that you will consent in the future, which results in forced sexual activity.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
DON’T LOOK AWAY
Many women and children are stuck in an endless cycle of abuse, too afraid to report it.
SPEAK UP
Let’s break the silence against the violence. If you are a victim or know a victim of abuse, speak up – there is nothing to be ashamed of. You can make your community safer by reporting violence and abuse.
ESTABLISH A SAFE COMMUNICATION LINE WITH THE VICTIM
Abusers tend to monitor their victim’s conversations. So, make sure you find ways of communicating with the victim, which the abuser won’t find out about.
CHALLENGE BEHAVIOURS
Cultures and practices that promote gender inequality and violence against women and children need to be challenged to make a change. Lend support to victims of abuse; be a shoulder to cry on, listen to their story and help them report their abuse, with their consent. Teach children about gender equality.
DEMONSTRATE SOLIDARITY
The Cabinet of South Africa has decided that from the 25th to 29th of November, the nation should embark on five days of mourning for the victims of COVID-19. From 6am to 6pm, the national flag will fly at half-mast throughout the country in remembrance of all those who have passed on due to COVID-19 and gender-based violence. Wear a black armband or other signs of mourning to signify your respect for those who have departed.
At South32, we have zero tolerance for violence against women and children, and we stand together in the fight against it.
- IN SA, 1 IN 5 (21%) partnered women has experienced physical violence by a partner.
- GLOBALLY, 1 IN 3 WOMEN experienced physical or sexual violence mostly by an intimate partner even before the COVID-19 pandemic began. (Sources: www.who.int | www.unwomen.org | www.gov.za | www.parliament.com)
If you are a victim of gender-based violence, or if you would like to report an incident, please take note of the following numbers:
- CALL: 0800 428 428 (emergency line)
- CALL BACK: *120* 7867# (supported by a USSD)
- SKYPE ADDRESS: HelpmeGbv (for members of the deaf community)
- SMS: ‘help’ to 31531 (for persons with disability)
HILLSIDE ALUMINIUM
9 West Central, Arterial, Richards Bay, 3900, South Africa
+27 (0) 35 908 8111
