Council pledges its support for Reclaim the Night 2026

The annual campaign runs from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day, raising awareness of violence against women and girls and encouraging communities around the world to act. 

Led by Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (GRASAC) and organised in partnership with Forest of Dean District Council, Reclaim the Night provides an opportunity for residents, community groups, partners and supporters to come together and send a clear message that violence against women and girls has no place in our communities. 

The march highlights a simple but powerful principle: women should be able to go about their daily lives, at any time of day or night, free from fear, harassment and violence. 

Participants will gather in the Triangle in Cinderford, from 6pm before setting off on the march at 6.30pm. The route, which is approximately half a mile long and fully step-free, will take walkers through the town centre before returning to the Triangle for reflection and hot refreshments. 

Cabinet Member for Communities at Forest of Dean District Council, Cllr Jackie Dale said: 

"Reclaim the Night is an important opportunity for our community to stand together and make it clear that violence, harassment and abuse against women and girls will not be tolerated. 

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community, whether they are walking home, travelling to work or simply going about their daily lives. By supporting this event, we are showing solidarity with survivors and reaffirming our commitment to creating safer, more inclusive communities across the Forest of Dean. 

“We are incredibly proud to work with partners on hosting this year's march, and I encourage residents to join us in Cinderford and be part of a powerful collective message that violence against women and girls has no place in our district, or across the world." 

The event is open to everyone who wishes to support the campaign. Participants are welcome to bring placards or simply attend and walk alongside others in solidarity. Stewards, first aiders, police representatives, and support services will be present throughout the event, with indoor safe spaces and refreshments available. 

As a survivor-centred event, organisers are also asking attendees not to livestream the march or photograph participants without their explicit consent, helping to ensure the event remains a safe and supportive space for all. 

Reclaim the Night forms part of wider efforts across Gloucestershire to challenge gender-based violence, support survivors and promote respectful, safe communities. By walking together, participants will not only raise awareness of the impact of violence against women and girls but also demonstrate a shared determination to bring about lasting change. 

Chair of the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Forum, Cllr Di Martin added: 

"Creating safe, welcoming communities is everyone's responsibility. Events such as Reclaim the Night help start important conversations, encourage people to stand together, and reinforce the message that harassment and violence are never acceptable. 

“We hope residents in Cinderford and across the Forest come out to support the march and demonstrate their commitment to making the Forest of Dean a place where everyone feels safe and valued." 

Further information about the march, including the route, parking details and how to participate can be found on the Council’s dedicated website: https://fdean.gov.uk/reclaimthenight