The Westcountry Women Awards launched in May and across 15 categories aims to put outstanding work by women in the spotlight.
The Combatting Violence Against Women and Girls category recognises innovative and challenging work to make our society safer for everyone. It is also to celebrate the effort that has been committed so the South West remains one of the safest parts of the country.
The award is sponsored by Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, who has made targeting violence a Police and Crime Plan priority.
The honour was awarded last year to Hannah Shead, CEO of Devon charity Trevi, which provides safe spaces and therapeutic support for women in recovery and their children.
Commissioner Hernandez said at the time: “Hannah is the ‘mother of all mothers’, working tirelessly to offer a safe haven for women and children who may have nowhere else to go.”
Hannah said the award was for the “whole team” at Trevi, adding: “I am just the figurehead for a fantastic group of women who are out there combating violence against women and girls. This amazing group of women are constantly thinking about how we can keep women safe in Plymouth because the reality is that women in Plymouth are still experiencing violence and living in fear both on the streets and in their own homes.”
The deadline for entries to this year’s awards is August 25 and the Commissioner is calling on people to again nominate people they know who go above and beyond to protect women and girls in our communities.
She said: “The work being done across our two counties to keep women and girls safe from harm cannot be underestimated and should be shouted from the rooftops.
“These awards are a brilliant opportunity to shine a light on some of the incredible women working tirelessly every day to prevent violence in our communities.
“You can do your bit by nominating any unsung heroines you know who deserve to be recognised and celebrated at the Westcountry Women Awards.”
The Westcountry Women Awards were launched last year by journalist, broadcaster and women’s campaigner Alexis Bowater OBE, and businesswoman Tess Stuber to celebrate and highlight achievements and triumphs of women across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.
The winner will be announced at the Grand Final at the Crowne Plaza, Plymouth, on December 1.
Nominate here: https://westcountrywomenawards.co.uk/nominations