Understanding violence against women and girls

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is both a form of discrimination and a violation of human rights. We have adopted the United Nations declaration on elimination of violence against women to support our understanding of VAWG.

The UN define VAWG as:

“Any act of gender-based violence that results or is likely to result in physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, that is directed at a woman because she is a woman or acts of violence which are suffered disproportionately by women.”

Forms of violence and abuse

The term Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) is used, based on the understanding that these types of abuse disproportionately affect women and girls, while recognising the impact abuse has on all victims and survivors.

Find out about different forms of harassment, abuse and violence:

• Domestic abuse
• Harmful practices
• Stalking
• Spiking
• Sexual harassment

How we can prevent VAWG

We all have a part to play in ending violence against women and girls - don't pass her by. Here are some ways you can help:

• Make the White Ribbon Promise
• Look out for bystander training and ways to show solidarity with survivors

What we are doing

Preventing and responding to VAWG is a key priority for the Council, and we are committed to keeping Richmond safe. We are working with partner agencies, local community organisations and victim-survivors to prevent and respond to VAWG by prioritising changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours that underpin VAWG, identifying risks and intervening early, providing safety and support, and holding perpetrators to account.

Read our 2025-2028 VAWG Strategy to find out more.

White Ribbon

As a White Ribbon accredited organisation, we are committed to encouraging allyship within the borough. To do this, we work with local organisations and groups to build community engagement.

The White Ribbon campaign engages men and boys to tackle the prevalence of male violence against women by challenging the culture that can lead to harassment and violence. Our action plan empowers our staff, residents and the community to help end male violence.

Safe Space

The Safe Space at Richmond Station is available to anyone who might need help or advice on a weekend evening. The police are present at the gazebo to intervene if required.

Visitors will also be able to find information on White Ribbon, domestic abuse services and the Railway Guardian app.

One Stop Shop

The One Stop Shop is the borough’s weekly drop-in service offering free, discrete support, advice and information concerning domestic abuse, stalking and sexual violence.

The drop-in session is attended by Hestia Independent Domestic Abuse Advisors, solicitors who can assist on legal advice, and the Met who can provide insight into police process and support in reporting.

Drop-in details:

• When: Every Friday
• Time: 10am to 12pm
• Location: Citizens Advice, 94-102 High Street, Hampton Hill, TW12 1NY

If you are a local business who could help promote this service, please email albina.hiorns@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk for copies of the One Stop Shop flyers.

Safer Streets

We are a member of the South West London Safer Streets Partnership, alongside Kingston, Merton and Wandsworth Councils and the Metropolitan Police.

This partnership delivers initiatives to engage men as well as provide bystander training to residents, empowering them to support vulnerable people. Learn more about Safer Streets.