Men urged to do more to prevent violence against women and girls
#AllMenCan take action and make a stand for White Ribbon day
Last updated 27th May 2022
Men are being urged to do more to make a stand against violence against women and girls.
White Ribbon campaigners call for a change in attitudes and have chosen #AllMenCan as their leading message this year.
On White Ribbon Day, Thursday 25th November, and the 16 days to end violence against women that follow, the charity is asking people to come together, and say 'no' to violence against women.
The charity started developing its message in March when the murder of Sarah Everard brought women's experience of men's violence to the forefront of everyone's minds.
Violence against women was in the focus again when primary school teacher Sabina Nessa was murdered on her way to meet a friend in September.
Both incidents opened up many conversations about men taking action and making a stand.
Anthea Sully from White Ribbon told Northsound 1: "We need to think about how people relate to their friends. Are they excusing when people tell sexist jokes? Are they uncomfortable about how their friends are behaving when they go out on a night out?
"Asking those questions and being prepared to challenge them makes a big difference."
Rise in domestic abuse numbers
Yesterday it was revealed that domestic abuse figures have risen, with the pandemic being linked to the increase.
Figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS)show that the police recorded 845,734 domestic abuse-related crimes in England and Wales in the year ending March 2021, a 6% annual rise.
They made 33 arrests per 100 domestic abuse-related crimes, the same as in the previous year.
Calls to domestic abuse helplines increased significantly at the height of the pandemic.
Figures revealed that there were just under 50,000 calls to the national domestic abuse hotline, run by charity Refuge, in England.
'We Need To Talk About Women’s Safety'?
Earlier this year our Bauer Media panel and guests took part in an important discussion on women’s safety and what we can do to implement change. You can view the video below or on Closer's YouTube.
Trigger warning: You might find subjects in this discussion distressing. If you need any help and support you can call the Samaritans on 116 123.
If you need to report instances of harassment or abuse and feel comfortable to do so you can contact the Met Police, Police Scotland or the National Domestic Abuse helpline.