South Shields FC and Sunderland AFC aim to help blow final whistle on domestic violence
South Shields FC and Sunderland AFC are supporting the White Ribbon campaign, which is an international movement, led by men, to end violence against women.
Staff and players from both clubs have worn white ribbons to show their support, while both are to carry an article in their matchday programme and promote the message at their matches.
The campaign is being supported by South Tyneside Council.
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Hide AdCoun Moira Smith, lead member for area management and community safety, said: “I am so pleased that both teams have come on board to support this campaign.
“We know football players are regarded as role models by many of their fans, so to have them on side really helps us to reinforce this critical message that violence against women must never be tolerated.”
One in four women are subjected to some kind of violence or abuse at the hands of men during their lifetime, whether it’s physical, mental or sexual.
South Shields FC joint manager Lee Picton said: “This is a very important campaign and we are only too happy to support it.
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Hide Ad“No one should be subjected to violence or abuse of any kind, but particularly at the hands of those they should be able to trust more than anyone.
“The figures show that domestic violence is a significant problem within our society, and we all have a duty to do all we can to help raise awareness and eradicate it. It can never be tolerated.”
Sunderland AFC captain John O’Shea added: “The club has given its support to the very important work of the White Ribbon campaign for a number of years.
“By giving our collective backing to the initiative, we hope that we can help to draw attention to the very serious issue of domestic violence.”