Domestic Violence

16 Days of Action is a global campaign running every year from 25 November to 10 December and strives to eliminate violence and abuse against women and girls around the world. We’ve supported the campaign in Leeds since 1999 and use it to raise awareness of all forms of domestic violence and abuse, and to encourage anyone affected by domestic violence and abuse to seek help.

This year’s theme for 16 Days of Action and the White Ribbon Campaign in Leeds is recognising domestic violence and abuse experienced by older people. Statistics have shown us that ‘abuse has no age limit’:

• 44% of victims aged 61+ are much more likely to experience abuse from an adult family member compared to 6% of those aged 60 and under
• 40% of victims aged 61+ are much more likely to experience abuse from a current intimate partner compared to 28% of those aged 60 and under
• 60% of older victims are less likely to attempt to leave their perpetrator in the year before accessing help compared to 28% of those aged 60 and under
• 32% of older victims are more likely to be living with the perpetrator after getting support compared to 9% of those aged below 60

If you are currently experiencing domestic abuse and are in immediate danger please call  West Yorkshire Police on 999 or, if you would like to speak to someone in confidence about advice and support or, if you are a family member or friend of someone who is experiencing abuse, please call the Leeds Domestic Violence 24 hour helpline on 0113 246 0401.   

To find out more about events happening, follow us on Twitter @SaferLeeds and join us by using the hashtags #16DaysLeeds.   

We have created a handy pack full on information and posters should give you everything you need to help deliver the 16 Days of Action and White Ribbon Campaign message. View the information pack.

For more information on older people, please visit Age Friendly Leeds. For further guidance on adult safeguarding please visit the Leeds Safeguarding Adults Board.