Taking A Stand Against Violence Towards Women 

International White Ribbon Day is commemorated internationally on the 25 November every year across many countries. The purpose is to raise awareness of domestic violence and to state publicly that domestic violence is not acceptable. The campaign urges people to wear a white ribbon as a pledge against violence against women.

South Bucks District Council is working with the South Bucks Community Safety Partnership and supporting the campaign by highlighting the problem, raising awareness and providing advice to women on where they can go for confidential help.

The Community Safety Partnership will be visiting the following locations on the day to publicise and highlight the help and support available:

• Beaconsfield Train Station - 7am to 8:30am
• Taplow Sainsbury's - 12:30pm to 2:30pm
• Tesco Gerrards Cross - 12-2pm
• Gerrards Cross Train Station - 5:30pm to 7.30pm

White Ribbon Day will also be marked with a charity football match taking place on Saturday 26th at Burnham Football Ground where Thames Valley Police will be taking on young people from Burnham and Farnham Common youth clubs. The game will kick off at 10.30am with a guest appearance from Dennis Wise (ex-Chelsea FC Captain and FA CUP Winner).

South Bucks District Councillor Anita Cranmer, Portfolio Holder for Community, says: “The White Ribbon symbolises that the wearer will not commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women. We are inviting women, men and children to wear the ribbon and break the silence and hope that lots of residents will come along to the football match to show their support.”

White Ribbons are available at South Bucks District Council’s offices in Denham. All donations will go to Women’s Aid to help continue tackling domestic abuse.

Domestic violence can affect anyone - victims come from all walks of life. Social class, family income, level of education, occupation, gender and sexuality, ethnic and racial background make no difference.

How to get help
Victims of domestic violence may find it difficult to seek help for a variety of reasons. If you are a victim of domestic violence, or a concerned friend or relative, the following help lines can give confidential support, information and advice:

• Thames Valley Police (Ask for Domestic Violence Unit) - 0845 8505 505
• Wycombe Women’s Aid - 01494 461367
• East Berkshire Women’s Aid - 01753 549865
• Relate - 01628 625320

In an emergency, always call the police by dialling - 999

For further information you can also contact South Bucks District Council’s Community Safety team on 01895 837200.