White ribbon campaign on domestic violence

On November 25, a series of events and campaigns will commence throughout the UK in recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

The Flintshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, part of the community Safety Partnership will be joining this campaign by holding two events across Flintshire.

The first event will be held on Friday, November 20 at Deeside Leisure Centre between 6 – 8pm and is aimed at young people. The second will be on Saturday, November 21 at Flint Retail Park between 11am – 3pm.

The White Ribbon Campaign was originally started by a handful of men, after fourteen women were killed in Montreal, Canada in 1989 for the simple reason they dared pursue a career in a
profession that was traditionally claimed by men. It was a tragedy that unleashed legislative change, research, new attitudes and national soul searching that continues to this day.

When comparing violence committed by women and by men, the British Crime Survey notes that the results of men’s violence is five times as likely to require medical attention. Women
are four times as likely as men to fear for their lives, and three and a half times more likely to be murdered by a male spouse than vice versa.

Some forms of violence have a greater physical or emotional impact than others but all forms of violence contribute to the very real fear and suffering that women in our society endure. The basic rights that most men enjoy – safety in their homes, ability to go out at night, a job free from harrassment – are a source of fear for women in much of the world.

Violence against women causes more deaths and disability than cancer, malaria, traffic accidents or war.

Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge that you will never commit, condone or keep silent about acts of violence against women.

Jackie Goundrey, Flintshire Domestic Abuse Coordinator, said: "This year the Partnership’s focus is to raise awareness amongst young people.

"National research suggests an alarming level of tolerance towards sexual abuse and violence. It is important that attitudes and beliefs are challenged at every opportunity."