White Ribbon Day is the the International Day for the elimination of violence against women and girls. Wearing a white ribbon is a sign of a promise ‘never to commit, condone or stay silent about violence.
During 2012/13, police recorded 1,328 incidents of domestic abuse across the Borough. A total of 475 cases were classed as high or very high risk.
In Ellesmere Port, a giant white ribbon was placed by the main entrance to the civic offices, asking people to support the day by tying a white ribbon on to it. There were also white ribbons and a poster around all of the trees, lamp posts and street furnishings around Civic Square.
White Ribbon Banners were placed in the council’s main offices, as well as a supply of ribbons and leaflets.
Cllr Brenda Dowding, Executive Member for Adult Health and Social Care said: “It was very important to mark November 25 and raise awareness of all forms of violence including domestic abuse.”
“It is encouraging to see so many people across the Borough wearing a white ribbon with pride, as a symbol that we will never condone any violence, especially in the home.”
“And we must not forget that help is available to not just women and girls, but boys and men who can also become victims.”
The Lord Mayor, Cllr Jill Houlbrook and Lady Mayoress Rachel Walker joined local charity Chester Women’s Aid in Eastgate Street the day before to hand out white ribbons to raise awareness of this important issue.
If you are worried about domestic abuse, the following support is available:
National helpline: 0808 2000 247
Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit: 01606 351375
Refuge: 01244 314950 and 01606 871523
Men’s helpline: 0808 801 0327
Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender helpline: 0300 999 5428
For people who want to change their abusive behaviour: 0808 802 4040
To report domestic abuse happening to someone in your community, visit www.cheshire.police.uk and follow the links.
