South Tyneside Council tackles domestic violence

The council taking a stand against domestic violence by supporting this year’s White Ribbon Campaign.

As part of the campaign, which is led by men, the council is encouraging its staff to wear a white ribbon as a symbol of their pledge to never commit, condone, or stay silent, about domestic violence against women.

A white ribbon flag will also fly over South Shields Town Hall to raise awareness of the issue.

This year’s White Ribbon Day takes place tomorrow, which coincides with the United Nations’ International day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Coun Moira Smith, lead member for area management and community safety, said: “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.

“This abuse, which often goes on behind closed doors, can have a lasting and devastating impact on their lives and those around them – including children.

“That is why we are proud to support this campaign and work with our partners to make this crime a thing of the past.”

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Alan Smith, is also lending his support to the campaign.

He said: “As one of the largest employers in the borough, it is important that the council takes the lead on the very serious issue of domestic abuse.

“Police in England and Wales receive an emergency call about domestic abuse every 30 seconds.

“This is completely unacceptable and highlights why we will do all we can to support this campaign and challenge the attitudes of a tiny minority of people who think domestic violence is acceptable.”

For more information on who to contact if you are affected, visit: www.southtyneside.gov.uk/domesticviolence

Or to support the campaign, please visit: www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/makepledge