St Helens backs global campaign to protect women

St Helens Council is backing a global campaign to stop violence against women by men.

Along with Merseyside Police and other Community Safety Partners, the council has pledged to support tomorrow’s (25 November) White Ribbon Day.

The White Ribbon Campaign is the UK branch of the global drive to ensure men take more responsibility for reducing the level of violence against women. The pioneering campaign is unique in that it’s the first male oriented organisation to oppose violence against women.

Organisations applying for White Ribbon status must underline their commitment by showing they are trying to change the social norms that lead to violence against women - involving men in prevention activities, increasing awareness of the issue and providing services aimed at reducing the incidence of domestic violence.

Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Safer Communities and Youth, Councillor Sue Murphy said: “An average of two women a week in England and Wales are killed by a violent partner or ex-partner.

“Here in St Helens we work locally with our partner agencies to target repeat offenders and support victims of domestic violence. There's a Specialist Domestic Violence Court (SDVC) in St. Helens to fast-track perpetrators through the court system and reduce stress to victims.

"We also work closely with the Merseyside Police dedicated Family Crime Investigation Unit as part of our commitment to reduce domestic abuse and bring offenders to justice - and have an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate Service, which provides support to victims throughout the court process"

To pledge your support for the campaign please visit www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk.

If you are suffering with domestic violence - don't suffer in silence. Report domestic abuse in confidence to Merseyside Police on 0151 709 6010.

You can also contact St.Helens Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVA) on 01744 743 2000 for independent support, advice and guidance or visit www.safersthelens.org.uk for more information