MSP meets with Highland Violence Against Women Partnership

Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick met with the Highland Violence Against Women Partnership (VAWP) to learn about the work they are doing to prevent gender-based violence.

Emma Roddick met with Myra Ross, training officer at Highland VAWP, to discuss new materials that are being created to illustrate to the public what it is like for people in an abusive relationship and why they cannot “just leave”.

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Also in attendance was Lorna Stanger, who ran 16 marathons in 16 days against gender-based violence and continues to be a voice for survivors. Lorna ran 416 miles across the 16 days to raise money for Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland (RASASH) who provide support to victims of sexual assault.

On the meeting, Emma said: “I am so glad I got to meet with the Highland Violence Against Women Partnership to learn more about the incredible work they are doing to prevent violence against women and support survivors.

“Myra has created much-needed materials so that folk really understand the harsh reality of gender-based violence that we know is still too prevalent in our society.

“It was also inspiring to get to meet Lorna Stanger to congratulate her on running 16 marathons during the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

“The work she has done to raise awareness of gender-based violence, along with all the money she has raised, is amazing as she continues to be a voice for survivors.

“We all know someone who has been a victim of gender-based violence, but the work Highland VAWP does is absolutely vital for us to eradicate it completely in the region.”

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