Council flying the flag for White Ribbon Day

The county council became a White Ribbon accredited organisation in July 2023. In doing so it joined a community of hundreds of organisations across England and Wales who are committed to, and working towards, ending violence against women.

A key role of accredited organisations is to raise awareness with men and boys across Gloucestershire about the many forms violence comes in. It is not just the horrific acts that get covered by the media, some behaviours and words may seem ‘harmless’ but normalising them ignores the short and long-term effects on women and can lead to more extreme violence.

Cllr Stephan Fifield, Cabinet member with responsibility for White Ribbon work, said: “As a White Ribbon UK accredited organisation we are committed to playing our part in engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls. 

“It is so important that we educate ourselves and others and don’t accept behaviours we know are wrong – by doing this, we can all play our part in making sure that women and girls can live their lives free from the fear of violence.

“I would encourage everyone to find out more about the work of White Ribbon and considering signing up to be a champion or ambassador.”

Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include:

·         Coercive control and ‘gaslighting’

·         Economic abuse

·         Online abuse

·         Threats and intimidation

·         Emotional abuse

·         Sexual abuse

Signs to look out for that someone may be a victim of domestic abuse include:

·         Being withdrawn, or being isolated from your family and friends

·         Having bruises, burns or bite marks on you

·         Having your finances controlled, or not being given enough to buy food, medication or pay bills

·         Not being allowed to leave your house, or stopped from going to college or work

·         Having your internet or social media use monitored, or someone else reading your texts, emails or letters

·         Being repeatedly belittled, put down or told you are worthless

·         Being pressured into sex or sexual contact

·         Being told that abuse is your fault, or that you’re overreacting

An important first step to ending violence against woman that everyone can chose to take is to make the White Ribbon Promise to never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women. You can do this via the White Ribbon’s website. 

If you want to take on more responsibility to advocate for culture change and gender equality, you could consider becoming a White Ribbon Ambassador or Champion. You can find out more about these important roles on the White Ribbon website.

We would really like to celebrate with you when you have taken the promise or become a White Ribbon Ambassador or Champion, so please share details via your social media channels and tag GCC in.

For more information White Ribbon accredited | Gloucestershire County Council