West Lancashire Borough Council continues its commitment to end violence against women and girls

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

West Lancashire Borough Council will mark White Ribbon Day 2024 by sharing a commitment to end men's violence against women.

The Council first achieved White Ribbon Accreditation as an organisation in 2016 and have now had the certification extended to 2026.

White Ribbon campaign is a widely recognised movement in the UK and is spearheaded by the leading charity White Ribbon UK and works to engage men and boys towards ending violence against women and girls.

This year White Ribbon Day is on 25 November, and the campaign is encouraging men to hold themselves accountable to women, and to each other, so we can affect positive behaviour change to transform harmful cultures.

The Council is dedicated to its ongoing support of the campaign and raising awareness of men's violence against women and girls by encouraging male staff members to become White Ribbon ambassadors and to make the White Ribbon promise never to use, excuse or remain silent about violence against women and girls.

In a demonstration of support, the Council are promoting the key message of this year's campaign, 'It Starts with Men'.

The 'It Starts with Men' campaign highlights how the White Ribbon campaign is working to reshape public perception of this important issue.

Councillor Gareth Dowling, Deputy Leader of the Council and lead member for Community Safety, said: "Abuse against women and girls by men and boys is inexcusable and White Ribbon Day provides an opportunity for men to pledge their commitment to ending this violence. It is incumbent on us men and boys to challenge other men where we see violence, abuse or disrespect of women and girls.

"Senior Councillors and Council Officers have already made the White Ribbon Promise and become Ambassadors.

"By working together, we can take meaningful steps to eliminate gendered violence and ensure women and girls feel safe in our community."

Chair of the Community Safety Partnership, Paul Charlson, added: "The international White Ribbon Campaign brings people together to take a stand and say 'no' to violence against women and girls.

"This year, we are continuing to raise awareness, aiming to inspire more Council colleagues to make the pledge. Our focus will be on ensuring that anyone affected by domestic abuse knows how to access support."

More information about the important work of the White Ribbon organisation and how to become an ambassador can be found by following the link Ambassadors and Champions - White Ribbon UK

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you can contact The Liberty Centre for advice and support but if you are in immediate danger you should call 999. Domestic abuse can manifest in various forms including physical, psychological, financial abuse, and coercive control.

You can contact The Liberty Centre, a leading domestic abuse charity on 01695 50600 or visit www.thelibertycentre.org

Alternatively, you can contact the National Domestic Violence helpline on 0808 2000 247.

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