Force supports White Ribbon Day

Leicestershire Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner are today (Monday 25 November) supporting ‘White Ribbon Day’ - a global campaign to challenge men’s attitudes and behaviours towards women.

White Ribbon Day, and the United Nations 16 days of activism to end male violence against women and girls, aims to stop violence before it starts.  It encourages men to hold themselves accountable to women and to affect positive behaviour change.  The theme this year is – it starts with Men.

To show your commitment to ‘never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women,’ you can sign the white ribbon promise.

ACC Michaela Kerr and CC Rob Nixon QPM wearing their white ribbons.

Violence against Woman and Girls is a priority for Leicestershire Police. The force has a campaign in the city and county called You’re Right That’s Wrong aimed at men aged 18 - 30.  It challenges unacceptable misogynistic behaviour against women and encourages men to call out negative attitudes and intolerable behaviour from other men when they see or hear it.

Detective Superintendent Chris Baker, Strategic lead for violence against women and girls, said: “Violence against women and girls is a priority for the force and there is a lot of work going on across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland with many partner agencies to tackle it in all its forms. No-one should suffer abuse.

“I would encourage anyone who has or is suffering domestic abuse to come forward and report it either directly to us, Crimestoppers LINK or Freeva LINK - an independent organisation helping individuals live free from violence and abuse.

“Equally, if you think you know someone who is suffering from domestic abuse or violence, please come forward and report it. We are working hard to bring offenders to justice and to safeguard those at risk.”

D/Supt.Chris Baker and PCC Rupert Matthews wearing their white ribbons.

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, Rupert Matthews, said; “Tackling all forms of violence against women and girls remains a key priority for me as you will see in my forthcoming Police and Crime Plan.  I know that a great deal of positive progress has been made, and I have been proud to support the Force’s very successful campaigns designed to tackle this type of behaviour. But we all know that there is more to do.

“Going forward, I have pledged to work closely with the Chief Constable to ensure Leicestershire Police is able to deliver on the ambitious commitments set out in my new Plan.  Like you, I want Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to be places were women and girls feel safe. Where incidents of stalking and harassment will be dealt with quickly and effectively, and where women and girls are confident to come forward and report abuse.

“White Ribbon Day, and the following 16 Days of Action, provide a worthwhile reminder that we all have a responsibility to help to eradicate the abuse and violence experienced by some women and girls.”