Frome Addresses Male Violence at Community Action Forum on March 8

Frome will mark International Women’s Day with a community action forum. The forum will address male violence against women. The event, called “Accelerate Action,” aims for a safer future for women and girls in Frome. It’s happening March 8, from 10 AM to 12:30 PM, at Frome Football Club.

The forum connects to the IWD theme “Accelerate Action” for 2025. Residents and groups will work together. They will explore solutions and create actions to improve safety for all in Frome.

Councillor Fiona Barrows is leading the talk to tackle violence against women and girls. They’ll also discuss cultural influences that perpetuate the violence. Join them March 8 to explore solutions, share ideas and information, and find actions to make women safe right in Frome.

Barrows highlighted the importance of the issue’s scale. Police data from 2022-23 was reviewed. It showed 20% of crimes involved men committing violence against women and girls. While not society’s only problem, it is an important issue that this event will tackle head-on. The government aims to cut violence in half in the coming decade.

The discussion will focus on steps Frome can take, including how men and boys can act as allies. They will also talk about ways to improve night safety and how local businesses can contribute to the effort.

Frome desires local tangible actions. The organizers pose questions, like: How can we support good men and boys? Can Frome feel safer at night for its residents? How can local businesses assist the community? What already works that we can build on? Let’s work hard together on International Women’s Day.

The forum starts at 10 AM with refreshments, including coffee and cake. Discussions will follow from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. It’s at Badgers Hill Stadium clubhouse. It is free to attend, and tickets are available.