Northumberland County Council and Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service raised the White Ribbon flag to mark the start of an annual campaign to end violence against women and girls and domestic abuse. 
 

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence begins today (25 November), the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, known as White Ribbon Day, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.  
 

Eight women in England and Wales are killed each month by a current or former partner. 
 

One in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. 
 

More than 105,000 children are living in homes where there is high-risk domestic abuse. 
 

The Council received White Ribbon accreditation in 2021 and is committed to a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse and sexual violence. 
 

This year’s White Ribbon main campaign theme is “It starts with MEn” and highlights the role of men in changing the culture that allows violence against women and girls to take place.  
 

A second theme of the campaign has been developed for children and young people. It focuses on healthy relationships and shares the message - “Kindness Starts with Me.” 
 

Over the next 16 days, a programme of events is planned across the county to empower communities and professionals with the information and training they need to be able to drive cultural change and find the right support if they need it.  
 

Events include public information drop-ins, awareness-raising activities and training sessions for professionals. 
 

Cllr Wendy Pattison, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Cabinet Member for Caring for Adults, said: “Northumberland County Council is proud to support White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism as we want Northumberland to be a safe place for everyone.  
 

“Today, I encourage you, if you haven’t done so already, to make the White Ribbon Promise to never commit, excuse, or remain silent about male violence against women. 
 

“By working together, we can end the culture that allows violence and abuse to continue. 
 

“We can all contribute to this in our own way, and I hope that through this programme of activities as many people as possible will get involved.” 

 

Leader of the Council, Cllr Glen Sanderson, said: “At Northumberland County Council, we are committed to playing our part in eliminating violence against women and girls. 

  

 “The work we do as a Council includes supporting survivors and we work closely with local charities and organisations to provide crucial support to those affected by abuse. 

  

“Through schools, youth groups, and community initiatives, we aim to raise awareness and challenge harmful attitudes from an early age. 

  

“Here in the workplace at the county council, we’ve implemented workplace policies to ensure our staff are safe, supported, and empowered to take action if they encounter or experience domestic abuse.  

 

“We also recognise the unique challenges in a county like ours, with its vast rural areas. Isolation can exacerbate vulnerability, and accessing support can be harder for those in remote locations. 

  

“That’s why we’re working to ensure that services reach every corner of Northumberland, so no one feels forgotten or alone. White Ribbon Day is a reminder that while everyone has a role to play, men have a unique responsibility in addressing this issue. 

  

“To the men in our communities: your voice matters. Your actions matter. By challenging sexist jokes, calling out harmful behaviors, and showing respect in every interaction, you set a powerful example. 

  

“As fathers, brothers, friends, and colleagues, you are key to shaping a culture where violence and disrespect have no place. Today, I ask each of you to reflect on what you can do to make a difference in Northumberland. Whether it’s: 

  

• Making the White Ribbon promise  

• Volunteering with local organisations 

• Supporting a friend in need 

• Educating yourself and others about the signs of abuse 

 

“Every action counts. Let us ensure that Northumberland stands as a beacon of safety, respect, and equality.” 

 

Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service White Ribbon Ambassador, Chief Fire Officer Graeme Binning, said: "It is really important to raise the flag today and also to recognise that every day the spirit of White Ribbon is important. 

 

 "I aspire to be a male role model, to proudly wear my white ribbon as a reminder that as a male in the Fire and Rescue Service, as part of Northumberland County Council and as part of civic society, that violence against women in any form is unacceptable and something no one should remain silent on. 
 

"Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service is proud to contribute to making a positive difference and achieving equality and safety for women and girls across the county."