Coincides with International Women's Day

More cash for charities supporting victims of gender-based violence has been called for by Scots singer Annie Lennox.

The call comes in an open letter to politicians on behalf of The Circle - the feminist organisation she co-created.

The letter coincides with the group’s campaign, #MakeAStandfor1in3 and International Women’s Day.

Lennox said: “One in three represents the appalling ratio of women facing gender-based violence across the world.

“If we want to create effective change, then every sector must join the global women’s movement and stand in solidarity with a united call for a change in attitudes and behaviours impacting women and girls everywhere.”

Lennox also wants corporations and philanthropists to contribute more to tackle the issue.

Among those adding their weight to the campaign are: US singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile; comedian and host of The Guilty Feminist podcast Deborah Frances-White; former Irish president Mary Robinson; Nowhere Boy director Sam Taylor-Johnson; and You actress, Saffron Burrows.

Chief executive of The Circle, Raakhi Shah, said: “Given the dire lack of funding given to addressing women’s rights, especially gender-based violence, and the notable rollback in women’s rights globally in recent years, it’s easy to foresee a bleak future.

“Yet we witness first-hand the powerful impact these women-led, frontline projects across the world can have.

“We call on governments, philanthropists and corporations to direct more funds to frontline women’s rights organisations to drive change.”