Council supports White Ribbon Day | Sevenoaks District Council

Council supports White Ribbon Day

Published: Monday, 25th November 2024

Sevenoaks District Council is supporting White Ribbon Day on 25 November and the 16 days of action that follow it.

Violence against women and girls has gone up nationally in the last five years and in West Kent, there have been 5175 reports to the Police of violence against women and girls since April this year. This year’s White Ribbon Campaign focuses on what men and boys can do to address attitudes and behaviours that contribute to a fear of violence for women in their day-to-day lives.

White Ribbon’s ‘It starts with men’ message, asks men to hold themselves accountable to women and to sign the pledge to never use, excuse, or remain silent about men’s violence against women.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for People and Places, Cllr Lesley Dyball, says:

“Violence against women and girls is everyone’s issue. White Ribbon Day highlights what we can all do to raise awareness and support those who have experienced violence at home.

“Domestic violence can take many forms including physical, emotional, sexual, coercive and financial abuse.

“We want women and girls to know they are not alone. Sevenoaks District Council has a dedicated Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Officer that can signpost you to the right help and resources. We also run ‘walk and talk’ events where you can talk to experts.

“Together, we can prevent violence against women and girls.”

For more information on the support available, visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/VAWG

Anyone who is in immediate danger should call 999.