The lockdown forces many women and young girls to isolate with their abusers, trapping them in a violent situation. A new campaign wants South Africans to #ActTogether to combat the increase in domestic violence due to Covid-19, spread awareness and offer counselling to victims.
South Africa has among the highest levels of intimate partner violence in the world, and with the lockdown, many women and young girls who are in abusive or violent situations are more trapped than ever.
The Body Shop is calling on South Africans to #ActTogether and show their solidarity to those isolated with an abuser. The campaign aims to combat the increase in gender-based violence (GBV) due to Covid-19, spread awareness and offer counselling to victims.
“The Body Shop has previously campaigned on violence against young women and girls and the need has never been more acute. The more GBV is spoken about in society, the less this hidden abuse will live in the shadows,” says Carlos Jardim, GM of the Body Shop South Africa.
During the campaign, for every hand care product transaction, R10 will be donated to 18twenty8, a local women-led NGO. The organisation educates boys and men to champion girls’ and women’s safety, provides specialised training for young women at risk and offers support for victims of GBV.
“According to UN Women, men who witnessed or experienced violence against women as children are more likely to perpetrate intimate partner violence in their adult relationships,” Carlos says. “Ending violence is our collective responsibility. We all have to #ActTogether to change the status quo and fight this scourge.”
Some essential advice for survivors:
- Know that this isn't your fault, now or ever!
- You're not alone. Keep in contact with your friends and family regularly.
- Create code words or signs to let family or friends know if you're in danger.
- While at home, try to stay safe. Write down an emergency number and have essentials ready if you need to leave.
- Your mobile phone can be your lifeline. Keep it charged and on hand at all times. Know who to call in case of an emergency.
Care for yourself and those at risk by reporting gender-based violence issues. Being a victim of gender-based violence can make you feel isolated and alone.
Help support this cause and let’s be part of the solution together! #ActTogether.
Visit The TheBodyShop.co.za for more information.
