Force supporting White Ribbon Day campaign to help survivors and victims of domestic abuse

Today (Thursday 25 November) marks White Ribbon Day - the internationally recognised day where people are asked to wear a white ribbon to signal their opposition to male violence against women.

The campaign, which is encouraging as many men as possible to make the promise to never commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women, is followed by 16 days of activism against gender based violence.

This year’s message - #AllMenCan - was developed following the murder of Sarah Everard, which brought the issue of violence against women and girls to the forefront both locally and nationally.

Across Warwickshire, the force has already begun work to improve how we tackle violence – particularly against women and girls – in our communities.

A survivor of domestic abuse has spoken to us about her experience and we will be giving our backing to the White Ribbon Day campaign as part of this work.

Detective Inspector Tony Hibbert from the force’s Domestic Abuse Unit, said: “Domestic abuse remains an appalling crime that causes devastation for victims and survivors, their children and their families.

“The White Ribbon campaign is a well-established and high profile event that enables us to shine a light on the issue and demonstrate our support for ending violence and abuse against women and girls.

“While we recognise that domestic abuse can occur in any relationship, and we are committed to always supporting victims regardless of their sex or any other characteristic, the overwhelming majority of domestic abuse is carried out by men against women and it is important to acknowledge that.

“The last 18 months living through multiple lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a particularly challenging time for those in violent and abusive relationships while those who have not previously been victims may have also have found themselves subject to domestic abuse.

“The case of Sarah Everard earlier this year has also highlighted how we all need to come together to tackle violence against women and girls on every level.

“While being abducted from the street is incredibly rare, sadly certain categories of crime such as domestic abuse, harassment and coercive and controlling behaviour do disproportionately affect women and girls.

"In addition, we know they are also more likely to become victims of other crimes such as stalking where a perpetrator becomes fixated – often exhibiting behaviour that is obsessive, unwanted and repeated.

“For this to change, we need to talk about it, to make clear it is not acceptable and to encourage those affected to ask for help and support.

"No-one should ever find themselves on the receiving end of harassment, abuse or violence and anyone who does so should immediately report it.

“In Warwickshire, we have established solid foundations of good community, partner and police relations but all women and girls, alongside all other members of our local communities, have a right to feel safe, and know they will be protected as well as respected in every interaction with the force.

“It is vital that every possible step is taken by us and victims are provided with the information they need to make an informed decision. Whether it’s the first incident or not, we will always do everything we can to support them.

“We remain committed to protecting the most vulnerable people in our communities from harm, responding to concerns of abuse, supporting victims and bringing perpetrators to justice.

"Please do not suffer in silence - speak out and seek help if you need it.”

The force and Refuge Warwickshire can provide support any time. Call 0800 408 1552, email [email protected] or always dial 999 in an emergency.

Issued: Laura Maltby, Corporate Communications