White Ribbon Day – Tyne and Wear organisations come together to say ‘No’ to violence against women

The chief of the region’s Fire and Rescue Service has today called for communities to come together and say ‘No’ to violence against women.

Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther, of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS), has made the pledge in support of White Ribbon Day.

He has joined groups and organisations from across Tyne and Wear in supporting the national and international campaign.

White Ribbon Day is now in its seventeenth year and is led by men who are calling for an end to men’s violence against women.

 It is celebrated today (November 25^th) and is also followed by ‘The 16 Days of Action’ – with this year’s leading message being #AllMenCan.

 The awareness day, and subsequent activity, hopes to engage men and boys across the world to make a stand against violence.

It is also hoped for all men to fulfil the White Ribbon Promise to never commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.

Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther, of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said:

“Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service is proud to play an important role in White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Action.

“We actively promote openness and diversity throughout the Fire Service and support the integrity of the campaign all year round.

“We urge our male firefighters, staff and crew to identify and action the White Ribbon Promise and we hope our communities can get behind it too.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said:

“Violence against women and girls is not a women’s issue; it’s not about us, as women, keeping ourselves safe. Society needs men speaking out about male violence, challenging it, committing to ending it. This is why White Ribbon is so valuable. The message is gaining momentum and we must seize this. Ignoring a problem only means it gets worse. We have to work to prevent it and we will.”