VAWG

VAWG

VAWG - Violence Against Women And Girls

The Metropolitan Police Service (Met) is actively working to combat Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in 2026. They have launched Operation Estee to strengthen Enfield's response to VAWG, focusing on targeted patrols and prevention activities. Since June 2026, officers have used crime data, intelligence, and community concerns to focus resources in locations where women and girls are most at risk. As a result, four of the five locations have seen a 100% reduction in reported incidents.

The Met has also established Operation Amicus to support vulnerable women and tackle exploitation through safeguarding, outreach, and partnership working. This initiative aims to improve the safety of women and girls in the area and reduce the number of reported incidents.

St Helier safer neighbourhoods team are working on some local VAWG events and will be advertising these very soon!

Merton Council are holding the below events 

From 25 November to 10 December 2026, Merton will be marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with events, training opportunities, community activities and campaigns designed to inspire action. Whether you're a resident, local business, school, community group or partner organisation, we invite you to get involved and help make Merton a borough where women and girls feel safe, respected and supported.

Every action matters. Every voice matters. Every person can make a difference.

There are many ways to take part in this year's campaign 

White Ribbon flag raising ceremony

Join us as we launch this year's campaign with the raising of the White Ribbon flag outside Merton Civic Centre.

This annual event is an opportunity for residents, partners and local organisations to come together and demonstrate a shared commitment to ending violence against women and girls.

Date: Wednesday 25 November 2026
Time: 11am
Location: Merton Civic Centre

Everyone is welcome.

White Ribbon community walk

Walk with us and show your support for a future free from violence against women and girls

Merton's annual White Ribbon Walk brings together residents, partners and local businesses to stand in solidarity with women and girls and demonstrate our shared commitment to creating safer communities.

Every step sends a clear message: violence against women and girls has no place in Merton.

Date: Wednesday 25 November 2026
Time: 2pm
Location: Wimbledon High Street

For further information, email merton.safer@merton.gov.uk.

Walking Through Our Safe Havens

The walk will pass several of Merton's recognised Safe Havens, including:

What is a Safe Haven?

Safe Havens provide a place of safety for anyone who feels vulnerable and needs support while travelling through the borough. Participating venues can offer a safe space, help people contact friends or family, access information, charge a mobile phone, and arrange onward travel. 

Alongside the Safe Havens network, local businesses also play an important role in helping people feel safe and supported in their communities.

Spotlight On: The Shed 19 Citizen Hub

The Shed 19 Citizen Hub plays an important role in helping create safer communities across Merton.

As part of this year's campaign, we'll be sharing an interview with Ash from The Shed 19 Citizen Hub, exploring what it means to be a Safe Haven, how community spaces can support residents who feel vulnerable, and why local organisations have an important role to play in making Merton safer for everyone. 

Being a Safe Haven is about letting people know they don't have to face difficult situations alone. Sometimes the most important thing we can offer is a safe, welcoming space where someone can pause, feel supported, and get the help they need.

Ash, The Shed 19 Citizen Hub

The interview highlights how simple acts of support can make a significant difference and showcases the role community organisations can play in helping residents feel safe, supported and connected.

Find your nearest Safe Haven

Residents can use the imabi app to locate Merton's Sa AFC Wimbledon White Ribbon match day

Merton will be joining AFC Wimbledon at their home fixture against Barnsley with a pop-up White Ribbon information stall.

Date: Saturday 28 November 2026
Kick-off: 3pm
Location: AFC Wimbledon, Plough Lane

Visit our information stall, meet local partners and discover how you can help create safer communities.

Women in focus exhibition

Listen. Reflect. Be Inspired.

Visit Women in focus, a photography exhibition created by local women and displayed at Canons House during the campaign. 

Through photographs and personal reflections, the exhibition explores themes of identity, resilience, belonging and community.

The exhibition provides an opportunity to hear women's voices, reflect on lived experiences and consider the role we can all play in creating safer, more inclusive communities.

Venue: Canons House, Canons Park, Madeira Road, Mitcham, CR4 4HD