Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week
Week of Action
This year’s Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week (SASVAW) runs from 2 – 8 February. It is the chance for us to raise awareness of sexual abuse and sexual violence. Our Week of Action, gives you a range of easy actions which added up will make a real impact!
We have suggested one action per day, but if you miss one out or want to do them in a different order, that’s okay! Links to blogs will be made available at the start of the week!
We want the Week of Action to make maximum impact, so don’t forget to tag us in on your socials for extra shares! We are @nottssvss on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Monday’s Actions – Share Messages on Consent
Today, the Consent Coalition are going to be taking over our Instagram. There has been lots happening with the Consent Coalition since their last takeover. Today, they’ll be sharing links to lots of their free and sharable resources, as well as sharing some messages on consent.
Follow us for lots of free downloads and information to help you talk about consent online, at home and in your workspace!
Tuesday’s Action – get up to date on new laws and campaigns
This year has been a bumper year for new laws, plans for legal change and campaign wins across the sector. Have a look at our overview and celebrate the wins with us, where we can continue to push for change, with links to wider information.
Wednesday’s Action – get tips on how to handle intimate check-ups
We know it can be very challenging for survivors of sexual violence to attend intimate check-ups. This is especially the case when we’re thinking about smear tests or tests for prostate cancer. There are lots of things that can be done to help make the process easier, removing barriers so that you can take control of your health. Join us on our socials today and share hints and tips and for more detail, including links to downloadable content read our blogs.
Thursday’s Action – Join our in-person event!
Today, we are hosting an in-person event with Nottingham Women’s Centre. The event is for all adults*, with women-only activities held at Nottingham Women’s Centre and mixed-gender activities at the Friends Meeting House. It is open to anyone interested in wellbeing, empowerment and support during Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week. You are welcome to come alone or bring a friend.
There will be lots of stalls, wellbeing talks and discussions, presentations, information and activities such as Zumba and crafts. We will also have refreshments available.
Let us know that you’re coming beforehand by booking on Eventbrite.
*The event is aimed at adults and some of the talks will be unsuitable for children. While there is no creche, there will be some activities which children might like to take part in. Children remain the responsibility of their adult care-givers at all times.
Friday’s Action – wear purple
On Friday we are asking all people to wear purple to show that you stand with victims-survivors and to help raise awareness about the week. If you’re going to be with friends on the day, or at work, why not all get involved. You can share your photos with us @NottsSVSS on Instagram!
Why purple?
There is no set colour for SASVAW, but we do know that purple is a colour synonymous with support services in our sector. It is also non-gendered, which reflects the fact that anyone can be affected by sexual violence.
In colour psychology, purple speaks of harmony of the mind and emotions, mental stability and balance. While sexual violence brings about much upset and upheaval, the fact that counselling and support helps to bring calm, balance and renewal, makes purple the ideal colour for this day.
Saturday’s Action – Find out about the Safe Space Pledge
Nottingham is a vibrant city and we know that many people will be heading out to enjoy light-night, restaurants, pubs and clubs.
We are asking everyone going to the city to find out about the Safe Space Pledge. Over 80 venues are signed up to the pledge, which helps to keep anyone who is vulnerable safe. Spaces offer trained staff, physical safe spaces and information on what to do if you feel unsafe, including ‘Ask for Angela.’
Check out the Safe Space Notts website for more information about the pledge and why we’re asking everyone to identify three safe spaces before they head out. And don’t forget to get on your socials and share, share share!
Sunday’s Action – Support our work for free!
There are lots of ways that you can support Notts SVSS. You can even use the Easy Fundraising App to get other companies to donate to us free-of-charge when doing your online shopping! If pulling on your running shoes or oven gloves, why not set up your own sponsorship page on Just Giving? We welcome one-off or regular donations. If you’re part of a business, why not nominate us as your charity of the year or the month?
Find out how to support our work on our website, and give yourself a warm glow inside!
