NNC works with partners to raise awareness of the impact of sexual assault during national Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness week

06 February 2023

North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) are working alongside local businesses and communities to help victims of sexual violence get the help they need during National Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week running 6 to 12 February.

Following the high profile and shocking murder cases of Sarah Everard and Sabina Ness, alongside many other tragic cases, the need for people to be aware of the dangers has become more prominent.

A QR poster campaign is being rolled out across locations and public spaces in Kettering encouraging individuals to think about their own attitudes towards women and taking responsibility to challenge their own or friends’ negative behaviour if they witness it. Locations will include support and leisure facilities, local pubs and restaurants. The posters will include a QR code for individual to scan, and access further information and support.

Further activities to coincide the week include:

• Activity on the Safer Communities social media channels
• Photoshoot and flyer handout event linking with Corby town Football Club on 4 February
• Public information display in Newlands Shopping Centre, Kettering and Corby Foodbank at St Peter and St Andrews Church between 6 and 12 February.

There is also information available on the NNC website for anyone who may be struggling and need help, including local services and national helplines on a variety of different types of abuse.

Sexual abuse is unacceptable in any form or environment. Our teams across North Northamptonshire, our partner organisations and individuals, are working jointly to keep everyone safe and free from abuse. We hope that this campaign will highlight the impact of sexual abuse and the support that is on offer.Cllr Matt Binley, NNC’s Executive Member for Housing, Communities and Levelling Up

National Sexual Abuse & Sexual Violence Awareness Week is a national campaign designed to raise awareness, but the work doesn’t stop there, and we work with organisations every day to support victims. I would encourage people who have been a victim of sexual abuse and violence to come forward and speak to someone who can help.Leader of NNC, Cllr Jason Smithers

Following several, horrific, high profile murder cases, the safety of women is on everyone’s minds. In 2023, women should feel safe in their day-to-day life, so it is important that we show our support for this campaign and for victims of sexual abuse.Cllr Helen Harrison, NNC’s Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing

For more information, additional help and support visit the NNC website and follow Safer Communities on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Supporting partners include Kettering Newlands Shopping Centre, Corby & Kettering Foodbanks, Corby Town Football Club.