Barking and Dagenham Council is encouraging residents, businesses, community organisations and local partners to have their say on a new Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy.
The consultation gives people the opportunity to share their experiences, views and ideas to help shape future priorities and actions aimed at preventing violence against women and girls, improving safety, and strengthening support for victims and survivors across the borough.
Violence against women and girls remains an issue nationally and locally, with offences including domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, harassment and other forms of gender-based violence having a profound impact on individuals, families and communities.
The council is committed to working with partners and residents to develop a strategy that reflects local needs and continue to make Barking and Dagenham a safer place for everyone as well as holding perpetrators account for their actions.
The consultation is open to all residents, as well as businesses, voluntary and community groups, faith organisations and professionals who work with women, girls and families across the borough.
Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Councillor Saima Ashraf, said: "We want to hear from as many people as possible as we develop our new Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.
“Whether you're a resident, business owner, community leader or someone with lived experience, your views can help shape how we prevent violence, support victims and create safer communities.
"Ending violence against women and girls is everyone's responsibility and we hope people from across the borough will take a few minutes to take part in the consultation."
The council is particularly keen to hear from people about their experiences of safety in Barking and Dagenham, the support services available, and the actions they believe would make the greatest difference.
Residents and organisations can take part in the consultation by visiting: www.oneboroughvoice.lbbd.gov.uk/vawg-strategy
The consultation closes on Monday 30 November.