Council supports White Ribbon campaign

People of Shropshire are all invited to wear a white ribbon to pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

In support of the 16 days of action for the White Ribbon campaign, which starts on Sunday 25 November 2012 with White Ribbon Day, Shropshire Council will be standing together with other agencies and organisations to support the international campaign to end violence against women.

The White Ribbon Campaign was created by men for men.  It creates the opportunity for men all around the world to take a stand together against the violence committed by men towards women and girls.  The campaign aims to:

• address and change social norms that lead to violent behaviour against women
• involve men in prevention activities
• increase awareness of the issue
• provide services aimed at reducing the incidence of domestic violence
• mobilise entire local communities to end violence against women.

This year south Shropshire domestic abuse forums will be hosting a networking event in Craven Arms, focusing on the affects of domestic abuse on children and young people. There are over 120 delegates from all over Shropshire and from many different agencies and organisations who will be attending, to see the sensitive theatre in education programme delivered by ‘Loudmouth’.

Shrewsbury Town FC have continued their support, raising awareness amongst staff, players and supporters, and will make an announcement at the evening home match on Tuesday 20 November 2012 about the campaign.

Freedom Shrophire website is designed to enable people who live and work in Shropshire to access up-to-date information on domestic abuse.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for crime reduction and community safety, said:

“Domestic violence can take many different forms.  It can be physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, or financial abuse.  Addressing the problems of domestic violence is more complex than just having reactive services.  It’s also about changing the culture towards violence.

“This campaign is not only about asking people to show their support by wearing a ribbon, but also challenging people to speak out and condemn all forms of physical and verbal abuse against women.

“We would like to thank everyone for the support they have given the campaign and for helping to raise the profile of White Ribbon Day.”

Keith Barrow, Leader of Shropshire Council, said: 

“Domestic violence is a serious crime which we will not tolerate. I am personally supporting the White Ribbon Campaign and strongly encourage everyone in Shropshire to wear white ribbons to show their support to reducing domestic abuse in all its forms.”

For more information about the campaign, please contact Shropshire Council’s community safety team on 01743 252258 or visit www.freedomshropshire.org.uk.