POLICE and crime commissioner David Keane is taking a stand to end all male violence against women by renewing his White Ribbon accreditation.
The Commissioner has announced today, White Ribbon Day (25 November) that he’s been successful in his submission to White Ribbon UK to extend his accreditation for a further three years following the work he has been carrying out to support all victims of domestic abuse across Cheshire.
This includes providing in excess of £200,000 over the last year alone to support frontline domestic abuse services and securing an additional £300,000 to help support services respond to the many more victims requiring support throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The Commissioner also led a partnership group throughout the pandemic to support the emerging needs of victims.
PCC David Keane has also recently committed an additional £330,000 in funding for a brand new innovative project to support whole families suffering from domestic abuse, including the perpetrator.
As part of his renewed White Ribbon accreditation, the Commissioner will support the implementation of a work place domestic abuse scheme across Cheshire whilst also raising awareness of White Ribbon and the effects of domestic abuse within the local community.
PCC David Keane said: “I am proud to be a White Ribbon ambassador and I would encourage others to get involved in this important campaign.
“The best way for us to tackle domestic abuse is to work together and as part of my role as your police and crime commissioner, I’m working with a number of organisations to ensure victims of domestic abuse across Cheshire have access to the right support at the right time.
“It’s also important that we constantly review the victim support service provision in Cheshire to ensure its fit for purpose.
“This year, I have commissioned a full victim needs assessment to help me understand what victims in Cheshire need to help them on their road to recovery.
“The findings will inform the commissioning of victims’ services in Cheshire from April 2021 and beyond.”
White Ribbon is a global campaign that encourages people, and especially men and boys, to individually and collectively take action and change the behaviour and culture that leads to abuse and violence. To wear a white ribbon is to promise to never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.
More than 100 organisations have received White Ribbon accreditation, including councils, police forces, fire and rescue services, health authorities, housing associations, schools and universities. There is also a scheme for smaller organisations to become White Ribbon supporters.
Anthea Sully, chief executive of White Ribbon UK said: “Our call to end violence by raising awareness, educating and campaigning to bring about change is greatly strengthened by working together with our White Ribbon accredited organisations.
“Our partners are able to engage with many thousands of people to change the cultures that lead to violence against women and girls. We are delighted to welcome Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane as one of our White Ribbon Accredited organisations. Together we can prevent violence happening in the first place”.
Individuals can join more than 37,000 others who have signed the White Ribbon UK pledge and get more information online at whiteribbon.org.uk
