Laura Sharman 14 September 2018

Council warns of ‘postcode lottery’ over abortion buffer zones

The government’s decision not to introduce buffer zones outside abortion clinics has been criticised by Ealing Council.

The council - which was the first to issue a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to prevent protestors gathering near the Marie Stopes abortion clinic - said the decision could put vulnerable women at risk of being intimidated and harassed.

‘The government has let down women by today's decision,’ said leader of Ealing Council, Cllr Julian Bell.

‘Ealing was the first council in the country to introduce a safe zone and it remains in place, but now the government has created a postcode lottery where some women will be protected and others not.’

The council said it has seen a ‘dramatic’ reduction in anti-social behaviour since the introduction of the safe zone in April.

Cllr Bell added: ;Council powers are time limited - a PSPO can only be in place for three years before we have to go through the process again and apply for a new order. So even here where we have a safe zone, the clock is counting down on the time left to provide the protection people deserve.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner