'I thought I was going on holiday, the sad part is this is still happening'

A Merseyside charity dedicated to tackling 'honour-based abuse’ has issued a warning as it continues to get an increase in referrals. Savera UK helps survivors and those at risk of harmful practices, which include forced marriage, female genital mutilation, conversion therapy and more.

After seeing an increase of almost 36% in new referrals to its service, the charity is taking to the streets of the city in protest. Savera UK will march through Liverpool City Centre from Williamson Square on Saturday, November 23 at noon - ahead of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls - to call for an to the horrific practices.

Savera UK CEO and Founder Afrah Qassim said: “While a national decrease in reports of HBA offences appears positive, for us as a frontline grassroots organisation, the latest data is deeply concerning, and there has never been a greater need for us to work to raise awareness.

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“What is being reported by police contradicts what we are seeing on the ground, which is actually increasing referrals for HBA and harmful practices such as FGM and forced marriage. HBA remains a local issue that happens here and can affect anyone.

“We believe that the decrease may be indicative of challenges such as fear or reluctance to report HBA offences to police out of fear for reprisal or consequences; the fear of not being believed or the issues not being understood, or the high risk of harm that is characteristic of HBA and harmful practices not being recognised.”

One mum, Khatra Paterson, shared her experience with the ECHO ahead of the march. The 55-year-old was led to believe by her parents that she was going on holiday, but what actually happened changed her life forever. Strangers pinned down the businesswoman as she became a victim of female genital mutilation. You can read her survival story here.

The demonstration will begin at noon, with flagship participation from Savera UK, Zonta UK, and Katumba Drumming & Movement. It aims to disrupt the silence surrounding HBA and other destructive customs.

Notable figures, including Kim Johnson MP and Merseyside's PCC Emily Spurrell, are expected to give a series of impactful speeches. The route may change due to the weather so Savera UK have said to keep an eye on their social media.