Lancashire's new women and girls' champion vows to push for change
County Councillor Ellie Close is used to juggling the competing demands of parenting, running her own business and her political role.
Now, the mum of two has just taken on the important role of the council's Champion for Combatting Sexual Exploitation and Violence Against Women and Girls.
Cllr Close, 35, who is also ward member for Leyland South, says she is passionate about making a difference for women in Lancashire.
She said:
"I've got two very young children, and I want to know that they're growing up feeling safe and supported. There are lots of charities and partnerships that are doing excellent work, and I want to be out there with them - listening, learning and contributing wherever I can.
“I'm passionate, and hoping to work with partners and charities, councillors and schools to improve things for women and girls across our region.
"Every woman and girl in Lancashire has the right to feel safe in their community, online, at school, in the workplace and on public transport - that is non-negotiable. I want my daughters and every girl in this country to grow up confident, safe and supported. Women and girls should not have to adjust their daily lives to avoid harm or fear.”
In practice, this means a working group being set up to tackle the issue at ground level with visits to schools and really listening to both teachers and pupils.
It also means ensuring victims and survivors are heard and supported, prevention and education from an early age, practical safety measures across local communities, challenging attitudes and behaviours that normalise abuse, and working collaboratively with police, schools, health services and charities.
County Councillor Close added:
"I think we need to start with education and prioritise prevention and victim support, as well as ensure that the victims are heard and not silenced.
"The world's moved on so much, even since when I was at school. I can't even imagine what it’s like in high school with WhatsApp and the pressures of social media and everything that's out there now.
"There are lots of issues around women's safety on transport, like having CCTV in taxis, and trying to raise awareness of how important that is, and how vulnerable women feel when walking alone, and there are lots of things that we can do to improve things in practical ways.
"I'm just really passionate about improving life for people in Lancashire, and trying to do everything we can to help, improve and prevent issues, through victim support and working with partners and charities who have the skills and knowledge."
Vowing to work tirelessly to further women's safety across Lancashire, County Councillor Close added:
“Feeling unsafe should never be considered a normal part of life. Nobody should have to change their behaviour or stay silent to stay safe.
"This is not just a women’s issue - it is a societal one, and we all have a role to play in ending violence, intimidation and harassment.
"We will listen, we will act, and we will bring about real change. Women and girls across Lancashire deserve to live free from fear - and I will work tirelessly to help make that a reality.”