An ecumenical service to raise awareness of gender based violence is taking place on Thursday 26 November at 11am at St Columba's Scottish Episcopal Church, Aubery Crescent, Largs.

A short service will be held during the 16 days of activism against gender based violence to raise awareness of domestic violence particularly and to pray for victims, all present.

Hilary Moran said: "Help us join with others from around the world to end violence against women and girls, by raising awareness and calling for change. The service will be followed by tea and coffee."

The international campaign originated from the first Women's Global Leadership Institute co-ordinated by the Centre for Women's Global Leadership in 1991.

From 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, continues until 10 December, Human Rights Day, and aims to galvanise action to end violence against women and girls around the world. Prevention is the 2015 theme.

The UN Women website states: "More evidence is emerging on what interventions work to prevent violence—from community mobilisation to change social norms, to comprehensive school interventions targeting staff and pupils, to gender equality training."

For more information, please contact Hilary Moran 686213.