In every country in the world, the greatest danger to the life and limb of women comes from acts of violence committed by men, especially by their partners. For the most part, these acts take place in the family environment, i.e. in the place that is supposed to serve the protection and safety of people. In Germany, too, the number of women affected has remained at 25 to 30 percent for years.
Shame, fear, isolation and ignorance of their own rights prevent these women and girls from going to help centers or the police. "But seeking help is often the only way to break the cycle of violence, find a free life of their own and prevent the transition to the next generation." Says Carolin Wiek, Equal Opportunities Officer for the Wolfenbüttel district.

The aim of local equality work is, among other things, to recognize the patriarchal structures that cause it, to make them public and to break them down. "Only by drawing attention and raising awareness can we work towards positive change. Campaigns against gender-specific violence are therefore also part of the equal opportunities officer's catalog of actions," adds Kathrin Falkner from the district of Goslar.

"However, it is often not possible to reach those affected by violence by addressing them directly; other measures are needed for this, such as campaigns that discreetly give those affected access to the support network," says Simone Semmler, Equal Opportunities Officer from Salzgitter.

To this end, the five equal opportunities officers from the towns and districts of Goslar, Wolfenbüttel and Salzgitter, Kathrin Falkner, Vera Tietz, Simone Reese, Carolin Wiek and Simone Semmler, have joined forces and are running a joint campaign with Kraftverkehrsgesellschaft mbH Braunschweig (KVG) on local public transport.

KVG is supporting this important campaign by providing advertising space. For around three weeks from November 9th, highly visible posters on buses in the Harz, Salzgitter and Wolfenbüttel transport areas will draw attention to the helpline.

Women who have experienced or are still experiencing violence can call the 116 016 helpline for anonymous and free advice and support throughout Germany. This applies to victims of all
nationalities, with and without disabilities, as well as relatives, friends and professionals - 365 days a year, around the clock. Online consultations can be accessed at www.hilfetelefon.de (opens in a new tab).