A group of councillors has called for special focus to be placed on tackling issues relating to women and girls in South Gloucestershire.
The female members of the Conservative Group on South Gloucestershire Council came together this week to discuss issues relating to women and to ask the council to investigate the ways it can better support women and girls locally.
The move coincides with International Women’s Day 2024, a global event that seeks to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness of gender discrimination and promote harmony in society.
At a meeting of the council’s Scrutiny Commission on Wednesday night (6 March), the Conservative Group formally signalled its intention to table a request for a special focus group to be set up to gather information on issues that uniquely affect women and girls in South Gloucestershire in order to identify appropriate measures that can be taken to champion their interests.
The request will be discussed by members of the Scrutiny Commission next week and a decision will be made following feedback from council officers.
Cllr Liz Brennan, Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group and ward member for Frenchay and Downend, said: “This is a really positive move for women and girls in South Gloucestershire.
“The council has a really important role to play in supporting the wellbeing of members of our community, and this year’s International Women’s Day is a good reason to put a bit of extra focus on addressing issues that affect women and girls.”
Cllr Brenda Langley, Conservative ward member for Hanham and the councillor who spoke in favour of the proposal on Wednesday night, said: “I’m pleased to have been able to take this proposal forward.
“Working alongside healthcare professionals, social services, charitable organisations and other stakeholders in South Gloucestershire, this work will enable the council to better understand issues that directly affect women and girls in order to ensure all members of our community are given the tools they need to thrive.”
