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Violence Against Women & Girls
What is #GetTheMessage?
#Get The Message is a behaviour change campaign aimed at men and 
boys to highlight the impact of low-level harassment on women and girls.
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It is focused on gateway offences such as public harassment, unwanted or inappropriate comments, including online, that often make the recipient feel uncomfortable, objectified or unsafe.
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We want to call this behaviour out and challenge harmful actions that can impact women and girls’ feelings of safety – and get young men to be active bystanders and allies to challenge the behaviour of their peers.
Why we feel it is Important to support this campaign
A recent survey of over 4,500 women and girls in Lancashire revealed that 93% of women adjust their daily behaviour's to avoid potential danger.
These statistics highlight the experiences of our daughters, sisters, colleagues, friends, and neighbour's. It's crucial for men and boys to recognize that certain behaviour's are unacceptable. Among the respondents, 92% expressed concern about anti-social behaviour, while 91% felt uneasy around large groups of men. Additionally, there is a prevalent belief that bystanders are unlikely to intervene, which significantly adds to feelings of insecurity. We aim to assure women and girls in Lancashire that their voices are heard, their concerns are validated, and actions are being taken.
This campaign builds on existing efforts to combat violence against women and (VAWG), including grants of up to £5,000 initiatives that support vulnerable women and girls, as well as education and sports outreach programs.
What Behaviour Needs to change ?
What behaviors do we aim to change? We encourage men and boys to reflect on their actions. Many may not realize how their words and behaviors impact women, but we urge them to be more mindful and contribute to a safe environment for women and girls. Bystanders can play a crucial role by intervening when it’s safe. Before taking action consider the ABC approach. “Banter loses its humour when you imagine it happening to someone in your family.”
1. Assess for safety: If you witness someone in distress, evaluate whether you can help safely. Your personal safety is paramount—never compromise it.
2. Be in a group: It's safer to address inappropriate behaviour or intervene with a group. If that's not possible, report the incident someone who can take action.
3. Care for the victim: Reach out to the individual you believe may need assistance. Ask them they’re okay.
What should I do if I witness harassment or V.A.W.G ?
Tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG) is a key focus in the Police and Crime Plan by Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw. For assistance for victims or to understand how Commissioner Grunshaw is addressing this matter, please visit https://www.lancashire-pcc.uk/vawg/ . Public harassment is a criminal offense. To report crimes as wolf whistling, catcalling, any sexual remarks that intentionally cause harassment, alarm, or distress in public areas, please visit https://www.lancashire.pol.uk/.
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Alternatively if you are on a night out in Accrington and need a safe place on a Saturday night feel free to attend ST' James Church on Cannon Street betwen 10pm & 2pm. Also you can approach one of our Patrols
