VICTIMS of domestic violence have been urged to speak out about the abuse they have suffered during a day of special events held tomorrow (Wednesday) to highlight the issue.
White Ribbon Day - the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - will be marked in Redbridge with a vigil on the steps of the Town Hall in Ilford.
Thousands of similar events will take place across the UK to highlight the problem - which is thought to affect tens of thousands of households nationally.
A council spokesman said: "(White Ribbon Day) encourages people to speak out and report domestic violence and for sufferers to come forward and seek help.
"The day will be marked in Redbridge by a vigil on the steps of the Town Hall to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic violence.
"Younger residents will have the chance to get free face painting and henna tattoos at a stall on the third floor of the Mall, Ilford.
"The stall will be open from 11.30am to 4.30pm and partnership staff will be on hand to speak about domestic violence and hand out white ribbons.
"The vigil, organised by the borough’s Safer Communities Partnership, will take place at 2.30pm.
"White ribbons will be handed out and passers by will be asked to put their handprints on a banner to show their support."
For more information on White Ribbon Day visit www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk
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