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Violence Against Women in Spotlight

Soroptimists in South Lancashire Region focussed on violence against women at their autumn Programme Action Meeting. 

L-R: President Margaret Baker, Kate Brade & Heather Stern (SI Stafford), Margaret Molyneux (Programme Action Officer)
L-R: President Margaret Baker, Kate Brade & Heather Stern (SI Stafford), Margaret Molyneux (Programme Action Officer)

Guest speaker Kate Brade, of SI Stafford, began by describing her club’s modest awareness-raising vigil in the town centre. In partnership with their local women’s aid organisation, her members then drew up a petition: ‘I call on Government to ensure that perpetrators of violence against women are brought to justice’.

The petition attracted over 4,200 signatures; Kate and fellow members delivered it to 10 Downing Street.

The project, which involved SI Stafford liaising with local MPs, attracted considerable publicity – both for the broad topic of violence against women and for Soroptimist International. Club members are continuing to monitor the situation and follow developments within the Government’s programme. Locally they have linked this year with a local football team, to make the point that awareness-raising among men is essential. This is a long-term project for SI Stafford.

Soroptimist Fairtrade trolley
Wendy with her Fairtrade trolley

Margaret Molyneux (South Lancashire’s Programme Action Officer) gave a résumé of events in the Region and Federation. She then announced the retirement of Wendy Ross-Barker (SI Widnes) as co-ordinator of Fairtrade sales at regional meetings, and thanked her for all her hard work. Wendy has carried out this role for 11 years, raising hundreds of pounds. Her trusty trolley is, therefore, available for the next volunteer co-ordinator!

Regional President Margaret Baker later chaired her first Council Meeting and outlined her plans for the coming year.