Medway Labour and Co-operative Group Deputy Leader Teresa Murray has issued the following message on International Women’s Day:
“On behalf of the Medway Labour and Co-operative Group, I would like to send good wishes for International Women’s Day to all women in Medway. Today is a day when we celebrate womens’ achievements and focus on what needs to be done to achieve the equality and recognition women deserve in all spheres of our lives.
“This year we think especially of women in the war in Ukraine to whom Medway Labour and Co-operative Group send hope and solidarity and we will continue to support the fantastic efforts of local groups working to send aid to Ukraine.
“I am proud to serve alongside many great female Labour councillors, and I’m very pleased to say that since the last International Women’s Day we have added two more talented women councillors to our team Zoe Van Dyke and Lauren Edwards who won by- elections last year and look forward to having more women candidates in next years’ local elections
“As you may have seen lately, your local Labour and Co-operative Councillors have been going directly to the streets to listen to the very real concerns that women in our community are facing, particularly around their safety and with increased violence against women. This is a problem of utmost importance not only in Medway but around the world. We will be continuing this campaign and use the evidence gathered locally to make sure Medway Council and Kent Police prioritise womens’ safety with the resources needed to make improvements.”
“Our next Street stalls are in Chatham High Street on Saturday 12th March 11 to 1pm at the mural opposite McDonalds and in Gillingham High Street near Boots on Saturday 26th March 11 to 1pm.Visitors to the stalls are invited to share their concerns and experiences on womens’ safety ,answer our short survey and receive a free personal alarm.”