International Women's Day event in South Shields is a success

South Shields Fire Station in John Reid Road opened its doors to visitors to the venue’s International Women’s Day celebration.

Various agencies were on hand to speak to women on a variety of subjects including domestic abuse.

Henna painting, dancing and information stalls also formed part of the event, organised by Laila Abdulla, from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.

Throughout the event, visitors were asked for their views on what pledges around the subject of gender equality could be made.

District Manager Ken Corbett, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are proud to be involved in the celebrations for International Women’s Day and fully support this year’s theme #BeBoldForChange.

“We are always working towards forging a better working world and achieve a more inclusive, gender equal service – for both men and women.

“This year, people from across Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are making a pledge to demonstrate their commitment to promoting and achieving equality in the workplace.”

The event was supported by representatives from the police and South Tyneside Council.

Organiser Laila Abdullah said: “Everyone has really enjoyed themselves and we are all over the moon how well the event has been received by everyone.

“The feedback has been excellent with people asking for more of these types of events.”

International Women’s Day takes place on March 8 and is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. International Women’s Day was first held in the early 1900s. This year, the global day to recognise women, asked them if they are #BoldForChange.

Last year, organizations around the world supported the #PledgeForParity campaign aimed at helping women and girls achieve their ambitions and call for gender-balanced leadership.

For details on International Women’s Day, visit www.internationalwomensday.com.