Mar 07, 2025
Celebrating the Violence Against Women and Girls Sector
International Women’s Day (IWD) on the 8th March is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ emphasises the urgency of making faster, more effective strides toward gender equality.
In the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) sector, predominantly led by women, the call to ‘Accelerate Action’ resonates deeply. The sector has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, with overlapping crises heightening the difficulties faced by women both personally and professionally. Yet, the resilience and commitment of those in this sector have ensured continued support for women in need, even as resources dwindle.
However, despite women comprising over 70% of charity staff across the whole sector, their representation in leadership roles declines as organisation sizes grow, underscoring the need for gender parity (Pro Bono Economics, 2023).
These professionals work tirelessly to support, empower, and advocate for marginalised women, driving policy changes and providing essential services. Their dedication is crucial in bridging gaps where women might otherwise fall through the cracks.
Economic empowerment is vital for helping women exit exploitative situations. One Beyond the Streets staff member explained, “Economic empowerment for some women means receiving all the money they are entitled to, not sharing their bank details with others, supporting them through gaps in their CV. It’s about helping women maintain their financial security and, by extension, their autonomy.”
Another staff member shared a success story: “I recently supported a woman through the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) process. She was awarded the same amount she had been earning through escorting. This meant she could cover her bills and daily essentials and, importantly, it gave her the means to exit the sex industry, which is what she wanted to do.”
The economic challenges faced by many women are stark and can be exacerbated by multiple disadvantages. Research by the Women’s Budget Group in September 2024 revealed that women in England are projected to experience a higher annual loss in living standards than men, with single mothers and women from low-income backgrounds among the most vulnerable.
Education and skill development are crucial for breaking cycles of violence and exploitation. At Beyond the Streets, we support women in exploring their options, developing CVs, gaining new qualifications, and other personal and professional developments. One staff member shared, “We helped one woman move from crisis to stability by supporting her with her CV and preparing her for interviews. She is now training to become a flight attendant, and another woman we supported has been able to get a job as a hotel manager.” Another woman has been referred to a two-year baking course with a pathway to employment. “I’ve continued to support her with this process, and she’s about to start the course next month.”
In a climate where costs outpace income, women are increasingly staying with abusive partners due to finances, and some in long-term employment are turning to supplement their income with sexual services for the first time. Specialist women’s organizations are essential, and support for them is vital.
Technology also plays a role in supporting women. Providing phones, laptops, and SIM cards can be a lifeline, keeping women connected to support services, loved ones, and vital information like local council services and appointments. Connectivity is key to inclusion and safety. One staff member shared, “While supporting a woman fleeing sex trafficking, I got in touch with a local charity that provided her with furniture and basics, as well as a tablet. This gave her the chance to reconnect with her children.”
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let’s honour the work of women in the VAWG sector and acknowledge the structural changes needed to support their efforts. Their commitment, resilience, and dedication are making a profound difference, and it’s essential to amplify their voices and ensure they have the resources to continue to do this work well.
We are proud to be a part of this important work. A huge thank you to all our funders for enabling us to carry out our vital work and for standing up and supporting the Women and Girls sector. Without your commitment, none of this is possible. We’re also incredibly grateful for all the wonderful donors, volunteers, staff, and supporters who help us continue to provide both direct support services and systems-changing work.
Together, we can #AccelerateAction for a future where all women live free from violence and exploitation.
References:
– Pro Bono Economics. (2023). *Gender Imbalance at the Top of UK Charities is Holding Sector Back, Report Finds*. [Pro Bono Economics] (https://www.probonoeconomics.com/News/gender-imbalance-at-the-top-of-uk-charities-is-holding-sector-back-report-finds)
– Directory of Social Change (DSC). (2024). *Women and the Charity Sector: Revisiting the Pro Bono Economics Report*. [DSC] (https://www.dsc.org.uk/content/women-and-the-charity-sector-revisiting-the-pro-bono-economics-report/)
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