White Ribbon Day 2022

Today is White Ribbon Day (25 November) marking the start of 16 days of action to tackle domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.

This year, White Ribbon Day falls on the same week as the start of the FIFA men’s World Cup with their message being that all men can join the team to end violence against women and girls - that's #TheGoal.

Detective Superintendent Jon Roberts, from the West Mercia Police Crime and Vulnerability Team said, “Tacking domestic abuse and violence against women and girls is a top priority for us and exists at the heart of what we do.

“Building a lasting trust and confidence is vital both in terms of how safe our communities feel, and also in encouraging victims to seek help and support.”

“Our campaign will run in conjunction with the international UN Women 16 days of activism.

“We have ourselves launched Operation Bow to meet the increase in incidents that we know we will see as we do throughout major tournaments and we are delivering targeted activity, education and awareness about domestic abuse throughout the FIFA World Cup.

“We have also joined Crimestoppers in a campaign to highlight increased reporting of domestic abuse following an England game, to encourage survivors to come to us, and to signpost to support.

“For the 16 day campaign period, we will be highlighting key messages in relation to domestic abuse and violence against women and girls and we will outline where people can access support and advice across West Mercia. We will be seeking out suspects using wanted appeals and reporting back on actions taken including arrests made and Domestic Violence Protection Orders granted.

“Please join us on social media and share our posts on information and support using the hashtags #WhiteRibbon and #16DaysOfAction

“Please email [email protected] for any enquiries or interview requests”.

Issued by AG, Corporate Communications