10/3/23

Gyms and fitness clubs across the city are being asked to join the campaign to help tackle violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Around 200 businesses including martial arts clubs, boxing gyms and yoga and pilates studios across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan will shortly be receiving information and resources to help raise awareness of the issue and enable them to signpost any clients needing help to local and national specialist support providers.

Following the success of information and advice being shared with hair and beauty organisations across the region last year, it's hoped extending the initiative to fitness venues will further raise awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence and the support available for victims and their families.

Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Lynda Thorne, said: "We were really pleased with the success of the information campaign we rolled out across hair and beauty businesses last year, having recognised the key role professionals in that sector can play in tackling the problem - from spotting the signs of abuse, being a trusted confidante for a client and having the right information to be able to signpost anyone they're worried about to appropriate support.

"We feel that gyms and fitness clubs across the region can help in the same way and by providing resources, we are equipping people who work in these settings with what they need to direct and encourage clients to access help and support.

"We're keen to have as many places on board as possible."

The resource packs being sent to local businesses signpost to schemes such as Welsh Women's Aid's ‘Ask Me Ambassador' scheme, FOR Cardiff's ‘Safe Places' scheme and free Welsh Government training online that can help people spot the signs of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Staff at gyms and fitness clubs will also be encouraged to become White Ribbon Champions or Ambassadors in support of the worldwide movement started by men committed to ending male violence against women.

The information scheme is part of a wider drive in the city to raise awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence and available support. Bus tickets for companies that operate across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan are currently carrying advertising for Live Fear Free, the national domestic abuse and sexual violence helpline. 1.4million tickets will be issued across the region over the duration of the campaign.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence against women, domestic abuse or sexual violence you can seek help and support from the Live Fear Free service.
@LiveFearFree #LiveFearFree Phone 0808 80 10 800 Text 0786 007 7333
Email info@livefearfreehelpline.wales
Live chat gov.wales/livefearfree

 If you are a local business who would like to receive an information pack, please email:Nicola.jones2@cardiff.gov.uk

 Follow the conversation on social media using #whiteribboncardiffvale