Tameside unites for White Ribbon 2025 to end violence against women and girls

Groups across Tameside are working together with the council to reduce violence against women and girls (VAWG) inflicted by men, as part of White Ribbon 2025.

The national campaign launches with White Ribbon Day on 25 November and is followed by 16 Days of Action, calling on men and boys to change their way of thinking to decrease domestic abuse and help women and girls to feel safe, equal and respected.

This year’s message is “We Speak Up” and encourages men to call out sexist comments and behaviour and challenge what they might deem as acceptable. There is also a focus on men becoming allies and accepting that this isn’t only a women’s issue.

The council will be working with pubs and bars, sports and running clubs, gyms, schools, GP surgeries, dentists and more to spread the message.

There is a key focus on supporting female runners, after research by The University of Manchester revealed that over two-thirds of women runners across Greater Manchester and Merseyside have experienced abuse. Local group East Cheshire Harriers are keen supporters of the campaign.

Council licensing officers are distributing White Ribbon posters and beer mats to local pubs and clubs during their Operation Nightsafe visits.

Curzon Ashton FC will also be supporting the campaign and working with Bridges Partnership, Tameside’s specialist domestic abuse support service, to host a White Ribbon information stand at their match on 29 November for football fans.

Other information stalls are going to be held at Clarendon shopping centre and Tesco Hattersley.

There will be training sessions for staff, professionals and partners on issues such as stalking, harassment, and non-fatal strangulation.

Ambassadors from across the council will also deliver briefing sessions and encourage other men to speak out against unacceptable behaviour.

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Health and Equalities, said: "As someone who cares deeply about the safety and dignity of every woman and girl in our borough, I’m proud to stand with our partners in supporting White Ribbon 2025.

“Ending violence against women and girls begins with men. With men who speak out, challenge harmful attitudes, and promote respect and equality.

“By calling out everyday behaviours like sexist jokes, catcalling and unwanted staring, we can help prevent the attitudes that lead to more serious violence. Thank you to all our partners for sharing this vital message across Tameside.

“Together, we can create a community where every woman and girl feels safe, respected and free from fear.”

For further information, and to find out more about becoming a White Ribbon ambassador or champion, visit www.whiteribbon.org.uk/.