White ribbons for children at risk

PEOPLE in Warrington are being urged to wear a white ribbon to show their support for the 321 children in the town affected in cases where victims of domestic abuse were at risk of injury of death.
The White Ribbon campaign launches tomorrow (Sunday) and continues until Monday, December 10, during which time staff of the Warrington Domestic Abuse Partnership will be selling ribbons in the town.”
Cllr Pat Wright (pictured), the borough council’s executive member for health and wellbeing said: “Warrington takes a partnership approach to tackling this issue and providing support services.
“I would encourage all councillors, staff and residents to wear a white ribbon to show that domestic abuse will not be tolerated in Warrington.”
Domestic abuse affects one in four women and one in six men at some stage in their lives. It can also have harmful effects on their children.
During 2011/12, 321 Warrington children were affected in cases where victims were at serious risk of injury or death.
The White Ribbon Campaign is an international campaign primarily aimed at men and boys, and encourages them to pledge that they will never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
Fiona Waddington, assistant director of children and young people’s services at the council and chairman of the Warrington Domestic Abuse Partnership is asking men, women and young people to wear a ribbon to show that they believe domestic abuse is wrong.
She said: “Staff will be selling white ribbons in Warrington to raise awareness and funds for the campaign. They’ll also be offering anyone affected information, support and advice.”
Information about Warrington Refuge Independent Domestic Abuse Service can be obtained on 01925 243359.
To support the Warrington White Ribbon Campaign contact Maria Guidera, Domestic Abuse co-ordinator on 01925 443124.