East Cambridgeshire District Council (ECDC) has become officially committed to working to end men’s violence against women by becoming White Ribbon accredited. 

White Ribbon is a global campaign that encourages people, especially men and boys, to individually and collectively take action and change the behaviour and culture that leads to abuse and violence. 

To wear a white ribbon is to promise never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women 

As an accredited organisation, East Cambridgeshire District Council is developing and delivering a comprehensive action plan to change the cultures that lead to abuse and violence and promote gender equality. 

Some of the actions that will taken include continuing to offer support to women who are victims of domestic abuse, the development of a domestic and sexual violence policy for employees, working with the community safety partnership to carry the message out to more men, and a commitment to continue to raise awareness within the district. 

Leader of ECDC, Cllr Anna Bailey, said: “At ECDC we are proud to wear the white ribbon. 

“Domestic abuse and violence against women is unacceptable. Our housing and communities team regularly sees first-hand the devastating impact this has on the lives of so many people. 

“Not only women, but their children and their families and friends too.” 

Cllr Bailey said East Cambridgeshire District Council is there to offer practical and emotional support to those who need it. 

She encourages anyone who needs help to attend a one-to-one drop in session available at the council offices or to visit the community bus. 

There is also lots of information on what to do if you suffer from domestic abuse and how to report incidents on ECDC’s website. 

Chief Executive of White Ribbon UK, Anthea Sully, said: “White Ribbon accredited organisations are able to make a real difference towards ending violence against women by promoting a culture of respect and equality, among their staff and wider communities. 

“By raising awareness, people can learn how to become allies and call out violent and abusive behaviour when they see it, at work and in the wider community.” 

She added: “We are delighted to welcome East Cambridgeshire District Council as one of our White Ribbon accredited organisations and are looking forward to working with them towards ending violence against women once and for all.”