Council shows support for victims and survivors of domestic abuse

White Ribbon is a UK-wide campaign, starting on 25 November, which aims to raise awareness of male violence towards women. The White Ribbon symbol represents the conviction that abuse, no matter what form it takes, is unacceptable.

White Ribbon Day marks the start of 16 days of activism against domestic abuse. This year, the theme is #ChangeTheStory where individuals and organisations are being encouraged to make consistent choices and actions to change the story for women and girls, so that they may live their lives free from the fear of violence.

There is no place for domestic abuse in Bridgend County Borough, that is why the council is flying the White Ribbon flag for the duration of the 16 days of activism.

The council’s Assia Domestic Abuse Services also has a display in our Civic Offices building window to show our continued support and are making a ‘Secret Santa’ appeal in the run up to Christmas, asking people to donate a small gift to children of families the service is supporting in the county borough.

The service is looking for gifts for boys and girls aged between one and 18 years old. If you would like to help, please drop off your gift donation to the reception desk at Civic Offices, Angel Street and ask for an Assia staff member. Donations must be received by 15 December to be delivered in time for Christmas.

White Ribbon Day and the subsequent 16 days of activism reminds us of the need to raise awareness and show our support for victims and survivors of violence and abuse.

This year’s theme is #changethestory and we are joining the call for all organisations and individuals to change the story for women and girls. Some behaviours and words may seem ‘harmless’ but normalising them ignores the short and long-term effects on women and can lead to more extreme violence.

The White Ribbon campaign reminds us to stand up, speak out and say no to violence against women.

Bridgend County Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Social Services and Health, Councillor Jane Gebbie

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, support is available from our Assia Support Service: https://www.bridgend.gov.uk/residents/social-care-and-wellbeing/prevention-and-wellbeing/domestic-abuse