Community Ambassadors

Community Ambassadors Programme for Minoritised communities and faith groups

Join the Fight Against Domestic Abuse and VAWG in Croydon

PLEASE NOTE: THESE ARE  VOLUNTARY ROLES.

As part of the council’s new Tackling VAWG Delivery Plan we are seeking members of the community to be part of our ‘Domestic Abuse Community Ambassadors’ programme to take a stand against violence against women and girls and domestic abuse. We need your help to create a safer Croydon. Become a Domestic Abuse Community ambassador and make a real difference in your community.

Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue that affects us all, regardless of gender. The statistics are alarming:

1-4  women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime

1-7 of men will face domestic abuse

The Police respond to a domestic abuse call every half minute

The economic impact on the UK amounts to billions of pounds annually

Your Role in Breaking the Cycle

If someone close to you - a friend, family member, or colleague - was experiencing domestic abuse, would you know how to respond? Could you recognise the warning signs? Are you equipped with the knowledge to offer support and guidance?

By becoming an ambassador, you'll gain the tools and understanding needed to address these critical questions and play a vital role in combating domestic abuse and other forms of VAWG.

We are looking for individuals from the Black, Asian, and ethnic minority communities because we recognise that these communities often face additional barriers in reporting and recognising the signs of abuse. Our local data indicates that some victims from faith groups are not seeking support and advice, and we aim to change this in Croydon.

Becoming an ambassador is for you if:

You would like to serve the domestic abuse/VAWG community through helping others

Would like to learn how you can help yourself and / or where you can go to help your friends, Family and members of your community.

Would like to become an active participant, volunteer spreading domestic abuse awareness and education to your community

You are a survivor of domestic abuse/VAWG and would like to share your story with others

The course consists of 3 45-minute sessions and includes surveys to assess comprehension.

You will learn:

·         Understanding domestic abuse including coercive and controlling behaviour

·         Identifying the signs and symptoms of domestic abuse

·         Recognising barriers to providing help

·         Responding appropriately when someone shares their personal experience

·         Listening effectively

·         Appropriate signposting

This course will equip you with the skills to support, lead discussions, identify needs, and connect individuals to domestic abuse resources and local agencies, while also awarding a certificate of completion.