Rochdale Connections Trust visits the European Parliament in Strasbourg

At Louise Weiss Building at the European Parliament are Jane Honeyford, Operations Manager, RCT: Kathy Thomas, CEO, RCT; Julie Ward, MEP; Jenny Miller, Domestic Violence Lead RCT and Bev Place, Business Development Manager, RCT

Following Rochdale Connections Trust's visit with a group of female service-users to the European Commission in Brussels in May 2018, the Management Team were thrilled to be invited by North West MEP, Julie Ward to visit the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Thursday 28 March.

The group received a tour of the Parliament; attended a briefing session with a European Union Adviser; observed a plenary session debate and subsequent vote in the Chamber and participated in a discussion with a group of MEPs’ about the issue of violence and abuse and specifically how this affects women and girls.

Bev Place, Business Development Manager at Rochdale Connections Trust, said: “Whilst our future in Europe remains uncertain it is crucial that those who are still representing us, influencing decision making and contributing to the development of laws are clear about the very real issues that are faced by their constituents back here in the UK.

“Julie Ward MEP, is an active campaigner against violence and the oppression of women and has been a stoic supporter of our charity and the work that we do with those significantly affected by violence and abuse living throughout Rochdale.

“It is fantastic that Julie recognises the need for this subject to be highlighted on the European stage and understands that those who actively undertake this work are best placed to advise on the strategies and approaches that are most impactful.”