WEGs Lead Lancashire’s Fight Against Violence
In communities across Lancashire, a powerful new wave of activism is taking shape. It is being led not by long-established organisations or seasoned campaigners, but by a determined group of young girls who are refusing to accept silence around violence against women and girls. As part of their youth-led Rise Up campaign, the West End Girls (WEGs) have created a powerful badge symbolising solidarity, trust and empowerment, placing their message directly into the hands of the community.
The West End Girls (WEGs), part of One Voice Blackburn, have launched Rise Up, a youth-led campaign supporting the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner’s ambition to reduce violence against women and girls. As part of the campaign, the girls designed a bold and meaningful Rise Up badge, symbolising trust, empowerment and solidarity, which was shared during White Ribbon Day.
The campaign grew from a series of Citizens’ Juries, where the girls heard directly from PCSOs, faith leaders and domestic abuse charities about the realities faced by women in their communities. The conversations were challenging and eye-opening, and they inspired the group to take action.
“When we designed the badge, I wanted women to trust us,” explained Safa Hussain. “Each colour was chosen carefully to send a message of safety, strength, anger against injustice and hope for change.”
The West End Girls also created posters and a social media campaign to raise awareness of Clare’s Law, helping women and girls understand their right to ask the police about a partner’s history of abuse.
“I think our poster is empowering because it shares information without shaming women,” continued. Safa.
As part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the group released videos exploring different forms of violence, including emotional abuse, coercive control and online harm.
“I’ve learnt there are many types of violence,” said Ammarah Ikram. “The project has taught me to speak out and fight back.”
The campaign also signposts support, highlighting services such as 101 and Clare’s Law, ensuring help is visible and accessible.
Project Lead Zoeya Ali said: “Rise Up has sparked conversations, built solidarity and amplified voices that have been silenced for too long.”
Sarah Albani, Project Lead at One Voice Blackburn, added: “This work shows that young voices hold wisdom and clarity. It has given other girls permission to speak, question and challenge the normalisation of violence.”
Rise Up was funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire using proceeds of crime, reinvesting seized funds to make Lancashire safer.
Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Preventing violence against women and girls is a priority, and I’m pleased to continue working with local organisations to achieve this.”
