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Zoe Gallen, strategic lead for domestic violence and abuse, has been chosen to appear alongside comedian Eddie Izzard as one of the ‘faces’ of a campaign to end domestic violence and sexual assault.
Zoe will be appearing on posters online and around the borough to help promote UK SAYS NO MORE. This national campaign is a partnership between London-based charity Hestia and NO MORE in the United States.
While Eddie Izzard and other celebrities are backing the national campaign, Hestia invited staff from local partners to appear on posters to make sure the message is promoted in the run up to UK SAYS NO MORE Week which runs from 15 to 21 May.
Zoe said she was happy to agree, especially as each poster has a specific theme and the one on hers – “Why doesn’t she just leave?” – was particularly important to her.
“It’s a question we’re often asked when people talk to us about domestic violence,” said Zoe.
“It’s just not as simple as that. People don’t understand the practical difficulties and the complexities of human emotions and the power of coercive control. If someone’s controlling your money, your passport and your whole life it’s very hard to break out.”
Merton Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Engagement and Equalities, Councillor Edith Macauley, said:
“Were really pleased that Zoe’s image has been chosen to publicise the UK SAYS NO MORE campaign locally. Merton was one of the first London boroughs to sign up as a partner and we are committed to its aims: No more excuses, no more silence, no more violence.”
Locally, the One Stop Shop is a confidential service for people experiencing domestic violence or abuse in Merton.
It is open on Mondays from 9.30am – 12.00 noon at Morden Baptist Church, Crown Lane, Morden, SM4 5BL (closed on bank holiday Mondays)
For more information call 020 7801 1777 or visit our website www.merton.gov.uk and search for ‘domestic violence’.
15-21st May is UK SAYS NO MORE Week – Let’s raise awareness together to end domestic violence and sexual assault.
You can make a difference by speaking ) out about these issues, sharing resources, hosting an activity or event, and donating to an organisation working to make change (get inspired with our Take Action Guide!)
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