No-one should live in fear of their safety – men encouraged to ‘speak up’ to create a world where everyone is safe, equal and respected

Devon & Cornwall Police is supporting White Ribbon Day on 25 November and encouraging others to get involved.  Everyone, particularly men and boys, are encouraged to make the White Ribbon promise to never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women. 

Chief Constable, James Vaughan, said “No-one should live in fear of their safety. Devon & Cornwall Police fully support this initiative.”

Tuesday 25th November marks the national day of awareness raising; it’s when men show their commitment to ending violence against women and girls. We want more men to use their voices to speak up to create a world where everyone is safe, equal and respected. 

“Individuals and organisations are inspired to take positive action to challenge the harmful cultures and behaviours that contribute to a a fear of violence for women in their day-to-day lives. 

Alongside the White Ribbon initiative, the Force will be launching its ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence’ campaign that runs until 10 December.

This multi-agency initiative helps raise awareness of and prevent violence against women and girls with various events across Devon and Cornwall; these include talks, webinars, storytelling, films, candlelit vigils, exhibitions and workshops.

Chief Constable Vaughan added “We encourage the public to help raise awareness around gender-based violence by joining in with the various activities and events happening over the next 16 days, organised by our partners in local authorities, community safety partnerships, charities and other support agencies.” 

Detective Superintendent Nicky Seager, who is part of the Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP team for the Force, added “White Ribbon Day and the 16 days campaign help to raise awareness about this issue and provide messaging around calling out behaviours of concern and preventing violence against women and girls, which remains a priority for Devon & Cornwall Police. 

“The Force has set a clear strategic focus on improving investigation standards and the service provided to victims.

“Our neighbourhood teams are working actively with partners on a range of initiatives to ensure the safety of women and girls in Devon and Cornwall and for anyone out at night that may feel vulnerable.” 

Devon & Cornwall Police will be promoting events and sharing safety messaging via their corporate social media channels. Information about local events can be found at these websites:

Cornwall 16 Days of Action - Safer Cornwall

Plymouth 16 Days of Activism | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK

Devon 16 Days of Action in Devon - Safer Devon

Torbay 16 Days of Action 2024 - Are you OK?

If anyone has been a victim of violence or harassment they are encouraged to report it to Devon & Cornwall Police via the Force website www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/tua. If anyone is in immediate danger, they should always call 999.

For help and support visit: Victim Care Unit.

Further information about White Ribbon Day can be found here:

 www.whiteribbon.org.uk