CAMPAIGNERS are set to don high heels and walk through the city centre to raise awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

The Walk a Mile in her Shoes event will begin at 10am tomorrow morning (Friday) at The Hive and will see men walk in heels up Worcester High Street to finish at the statue of Edward Elgar, before returning to the library.

The walk is organised by the University of Worcester's National Centre for the Study and Prevention of Violence and Abuse and falls within the national White Ribbon Campaign against domestic abuse.

Professor Erica Bowen, professor of research in violence and abuse and head of research at the University of Worcester’s National Centre for the Study and Prevention of Violence and Abuse, said: "The aim is to raise awareness of domestic violence, and specifically that experienced by women.

“By walking through Worcester, with some participants wearing high heels, the walk aims to symbolise a position of empathy and compassion with women victims, and to also assert the University’s commitment to challenging all forms of violence, abuse and oppression.

"There will be a range of people involved including academic staff from the university and members of the public."

The walk is the second event of its kind to run in the city. Last year 25 firemen, students and lecturers took part.

During the White Ribbon Campaign - also known as the 16 Days of Action - residents are being asked to 'say no' to domestic violence and sign a pledge.

Visit whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/worcestershire

  • If you need help call the Worcestershire 24 hour domestic abuse helpline on 0800 980 3331 or the Worcestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre's Helpline on 01905 724514.