Edinburgh Summit to Examine Why Women from Minoritised Communities Do Not Report Gender-Based Violence A national summit in Edinburgh will bring together community leaders, researchers, public services and policymakers to examine the barriers that can prevent women from Black, migrant and other minoritised communities from reporting gender-based violence and accessing safety. Barriers to Safety 2026 – National Summit on Underreporting of GBV in Scotland will take place on Thursday 12 November 2026 at the Greyfriars Charteris Centre in Edinburgh. Hosted by Fantanka Diaspora CIC, the one-day summit will explore how migration, culture and systems can shape whether women feel able to disclose abuse, report it and seek support. The event comes at a time when Scotland continues to examine how services can better respond to violence against women and girls, particularly among communities that can face additional barriers when seeking help. The summit will include emerging research on the experiences of minoritised women in Scotland alongside discussions with community organisations, public services and decision makers. The summit will look at issues including domestic abuse, sexual violence and female genital mutilation, as well as the role of public services, community organisations and policymakers in creating safer routes to support. The event is particularly aimed at those working across public services, policing, education, local government, policy, community organisations and women's rights, alongside people with lived and community experience. A second day focused on community voices The programme continues on Friday 13 November with an evening dedicated to community conversation, connection and celebration. Roots Conversation: What Do We Keep, What Do We Change? will create a more informal space for community members to reflect on the beliefs, practices and experiences that shape how gender-based violence is understood and addressed within communities. The evening will also include food, culture, a gala and awards ceremony, celebrating individuals and community members who are making a positive difference. While Day One focuses on evidence, policy and systems, Day Two creates space for community voices, reflection and collective conversation. Together, the two days aim to connect evidence with lived experience and encourage meaningful dialogue about safety and change.

Description supplied by the event organiser.