A new public consultation on the proposed Ending Violence against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Strategic Framework, has been launched by the Executive Office (EO).

The framework, which has been developed by representatives from across government and wider society, focuses on delivering ambitious solutions to address the root causes of violence against women and girls. It has a particular emphasis on prevention and early intervention with a view to effecting behavioural and attitudinal change.

Encouraging people to take part in the public consultation on the framework, Jayne Brady, Head of NI Civil Service, said: "Violence of all kinds against women and girls is a problem that is hidden in plain sight. Every day we see how it is affecting the lives of women and girls, wherever they learn, live, work and socialise.

"It is a deep-rooted problem, and something needs to be done about it urgently.

"This is why I am encouraging everyone to give us their views on this framework. Tell us what you think, so that we can begin making the changes that are needed. Violence against women and girls must end, now."

The Strategic Framework and foundational Action Plan were developed in a co-design process, with over 50 people from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Sarah Mason, Women’s Aid Federation NI, said:

"This is a good day for Northern Ireland with the launch of this public consultation starting us all on the journey to make women and girls safer in our society. Women and girls deserve to live free from gender-based violence and we encourage all sectors of society to get involved with the consultation process to make a real and meaningful difference in our communities."

Elaine Crory, Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), said: "The Executive Office and the co-design group, which I was proud to be part of, have been working together to develop this new Strategic Framework, and I urge people to engage with what has been produced, to let decision makers know what you think, and especially to hear the message that there is something for all of us to do here. This consultation is an opportunity to influence a strategy that, over seven years, can really help us turn the corner together, and what comes out of it will change lives."

Duane Farrell, Relate NI, said: "Relate NI welcome the publication of the Ending Violence against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Strategic Framework as it provides much needed direction to key partners on this important work. Delivering the ambition of the framework for societal change to end all forms of gender based violence is a task that involves us all. In particular, men and boys right across Northern Ireland are essential partners to creating a culture where women and girls are free from all forms of violence, abuse and harm."

The consultation runs from 4 July to 3 October 2023. For more information on the consultation, visit www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-strategic-framework-end-violence-against-women-and-girls-and-foundational-action-plan