Residents of North Tyneside and surrounding areas are being invited to take part in a special parkrun event to show support for those affected by domestic abuse.
North Tyneside Council is once again taking over the Rising Sun parkrun, with support from local all-female running group, These Girls Can Run, to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the services available locally.
The event will take place on Saturday 6 December at 9am at Rising Sun Country Park in Benton.
Now in its fourth year, the event has become a regular feature in the local calendar, bringing together people of all ages and abilities to make a stand against abuse.
Domestic abuse affects every part of society, with one in four women and one in six men experiencing it at some point in their lives.
The parkrun takeover is part of the 16 Days of Action campaign, which began on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, also known as White Ribbon Day.
Team members from partner organisation Findaway, a domestic abuse advice service for family friends, will be at the parkrun to share information about the support available in North Tyneside.
Participants are encouraged to wear orange to show their support and to bring a toiletry donation for the refuge to support those affected by domestic abuse.
Walkers and runners of all abilities are welcome.
Councillor Sandra Graham, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “I’m really proud to see our community coming together once again to take a stand against domestic abuse. Events like this show the strength, kindness and solidarity that exist in North Tyneside.
"Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, but no one should ever feel like they have to face it alone. By joining in, wearing orange or just turning up to cheer along, you will be helping us to send a clear message that help is out there and that our community stands with anyone affected.”
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said: “I’m really pleased the Parkrun community is coming together once again, in a show of solidarity and support for anyone affected by domestic abuse.
“I’ll be there on the day, wearing orange and standing shoulder to shoulder with others who care deeply about this vital cause.
“When we come together like this, we send a powerful message: you are not alone, and help is out there. I’m proud to be Mayor of a region where people don’t hesitate to stand together and support those who need it most.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: “Each year, when the weather allows, the people of North Tyneside turn a local parkrun into a strong show of support for ending Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and domestic abuse. Through events like this parkrun, we send a clear message that these issues matter, and help is available.
“This event, which already brings local people together, provides a perfect opportunity to combine visibility and engagement on a really important topic – showing survivors they are not alone, and that we’re committed to supporting them to create safer streets and stronger communities.”
The event is supported by These Girls Can Run who have played a key role in empowering women and bring attention to important issues.
Jaime Maccoy, Strategic Lead at These Girls Can Run, said: “If this event helps even one person to take that first step towards getting help or feeling less alone, then it’s worthwhile. Domestic abuse can affect anyone, and we all have a part to play in raising awareness and offering support. Our members will be out running the course and at every marshal point, encouraging everyone taking part and sharing that message. We’re proud to support such an important cause.”
As part of the 16 Days of Action, the council and its partners will take part in a series of events to highlight domestic abuse and encourage anyone affected to seek help, including a Swimathon, a ‘We Speak Up’ event at Whitley Bay Community Hub and Library and the Story of Hope exhibition at the Quadrant offices at Cobalt Business Park.
For more information about the Rising Sun parkrun, including directions and how to register for a free barcode, visit www.parkrun.org.uk/risingsun.
Information about domestic abuse support services is available at www.northtyneside.gov.uk/domesticabuse