Council Launches New Violence Against Women Strategy

South Ayrshire Council has published its new Violence Against Women Strategy 2026-2029, reaffirming its commitment to tackling violence against women and girls.

The strategy has been shaped through consultation with local partners and engagement with members of the community during the 16 Days of Action campaign last year. Feedback gathered during these sessions has been key to ensure the strategy reflects the lived experiences, priorities, and needs of South Ayrshire residents.

The outcomes of the consultation have been directly linked to the Equally Safe priorities which is Scotland's national strategy to prevent and eradicate violence against women and girls.

By aligning with these priorities, the Council is making sure that local action contributes to national progress, while remaining responsive to the voices of the community.

The strategy outlines key commitments, including:

·       Strengthening prevention and early intervention efforts

·       Supporting survivors with accessible, person-centred services

·       Working collaboratively with partners to deliver coordinated responses

·       Promoting equality and challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours

Councillor Laura Brennan-Whitefield, Chair of the Violence Against Women Partnership, said: "Violence against women and girls has no place in South Ayrshire. This new strategy reaffirms our commitment to prevention, early intervention and to ensuring that anyone affected by violence is treated with dignity, compassion and respect.

"By listening carefully to our communities and working closely with partners, we are taking meaningful steps to create safer lives for women and girls across South Ayrshire."

Councillor Hugh Hunter, South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Health and Social Care, said: "This strategy has been shaped by the voices and lived experiences of local people, particularly through engagement during the 16 Days of Action campaign. By aligning our work with Scotland's Equally Safe priorities, we are strengthening our collective response and ensuring that local action contributes to national progress.

"Together with our partners, we will continue to challenge harmful attitudes, promote equality and deliver coordinated, person-centred support.