Tomorrow's Women Chester leads city-wide partnership bringing together civic leaders, police, businesses and community organisations to drive change

A powerful new partnership has been established in Chester to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), bringing together leaders and organisations from across the city in a united commitment to create safer communities and improve outcomes for women and girls.

The newly formed Chester Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Board, led by Tomorrow's Women Chester, represents a significant step forward in the city's response to the growing national challenge of violence against women and girls. The Board brings together key partners including Cheshire Police, Cheshire Police Crime Commissioner, Storyhouse, University of Chester, Cheshire West and Chester Council, University of Chester, The Lord Mayor of Chester, local services, community organisations, businesses, charities and other stakeholders who recognise that meaningful change can only be achieved through collective action.

The formation of the Board reflects an increasing understanding that violence against women and girls is not solely a criminal justice issue. It is a public health issue, a social issue, an economic issue and a community issue that affects every aspect of society.

Across the UK, women continue to experience unacceptable levels of domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, harassment, coercive control and violence both online and offline. While awareness has increased, many women and girls continue to live with fear, alter their behaviour to stay safe, and suffer long-term consequences as a result of abuse and violence.

For too many women, safety is a daily consideration. Decisions about where to walk, where to park, when to travel, what to wear, whether to report harassment, or whether to leave an abusive relationship are influenced by concerns for their personal safety. These are realities that many men never have to consider, yet they shape the everyday lives of countless women and girls.

The impact of violence against women and girls extends far beyond individual incidents. It affects women's physical and mental health, confidence, relationships, education, employment opportunities and financial stability. It can leave lasting trauma that affects not only survivors, but also children, families and wider communities for generations.

The Chester VAWG Board has been established in recognition of the fact that no single organisation can tackle these issues alone.

By bringing together expertise, influence and resources from across the city, the Board aims to drive cultural change, increase awareness, strengthen support pathways, create safer spaces and encourage everyone in Chester to play a role in preventing violence against women and girls.

Importantly, the Board is sending a clear message that violence against women and girls is everybody's business.

The partnership will work collaboratively to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours, amplify survivor voices, promote education and prevention initiatives, and support campaigns that encourage residents, employers, businesses and public services to become active allies in ending violence against women and girls.

Lisa Buxton, Centre Manager at Tomorrow's Women Chester said:

“Having co-chaired the Chester VAWG Board alongside Lauren Evans from its initial idea through to the planning stages and now into delivery, I am incredibly proud to see this partnership become a reality. What has stood out throughout this journey is the strength that comes from bringing different organisations, services and communities together around a shared purpose.

“The 16 Days of Activism gives us an important platform to turn that commitment into action – to raise awareness, challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours, amplify the voices of women and girls, and encourage everyone to consider the part they can play. Ultimately, we want to see lasting change in Cheshire West, so that women and girls can live their lives without having to plan around fear or compromise their freedom because of concerns about their safety.”

Cllr Louise Gittens, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council added.

“Let’s not forget this is a major issue 365 days a year 24 hrs a day. Let’s use the 16 Days of Activism to reflect and send a clear message that this isn’t acceptable and we all want to ensure Chester is a place where women and girls can live, work, study and thrive free from fear.”

The Board will lead and support activities surrounding the annual United Nations 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, bringing together awareness-raising initiatives, community engagement, business partnerships and educational opportunities across Chester.  Through this collective effort, the board will help amplify local and national action to end violence against women and girls, encouraging organisations, communities and individuals to play their part.

The launch comes at a time when public concern around the safety of women and girls remains high and serves as a demonstration of Chester's commitment to being part of the solution.

By establishing a dedicated Violence Against Women and Girls Board, Chester is taking a proactive and collaborative approach, ensuring that the voices, experiences and safety of women and girls remain firmly on the city's agenda.

Together, the Board's partners are united by one vision: a Chester where women and girls can live, work, study and thrive free from fear.