Southend-on-Sea City Council has become White Ribbon accredited in recognition of its commitment to preventing harassment, abuse, and violence against women and girls.
The council is committed to working towards ending men’s violence against women and girls by becoming White Ribbon accredited, aligning with White Ribbon UK, the leading charity engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls.
As a White Ribbon accredited organisation, the council will deliver a comprehensive multi-year plan to transform its staff culture, systems, and support change within the wider community. White Ribbon accreditation is an opportunity to make our workplace a safe place for everyone, and to upskill our staff to become changemakers.
Some of the actions already taken include the launch of a Domestic Abuse Policy for employees and the appointment of several champions and ambassadors across the council, who will advocate positive attitudes and behaviours and raise awareness within the local community and with partners.
Cllr Martin Terry, cabinet member for community safety, said: "Achieving White Ribbon accreditation demonstrates our firm commitment to tackling the root causes of violence against women and girls. Southend-on-Sea City Council stands with White Ribbon UK in raising awareness and empowering our staff and residents to challenge attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate harassment, abuse, and violence.
"This accreditation is not just a badge of recognition but a call to action for us to work together in creating a safer and more respectful environment for women and girls across our city."
Anthea Sully, chief executive of White Ribbon UK, added: "White Ribbon accredited organisations can make a real difference towards ending violence against women by promoting a culture of respect and equality among their staff and wider communities.
"By raising awareness among employees, people can learn how to become allies and call out violent and abusive behaviour when they see it. We are delighted to welcome Southend-on-Sea City Council as one of our White Ribbon accredited organisations and are looking forward to working with them towards ending violence against women once and for all."
The council is proud to support the White Ribbon campaign on 25 November and the 16 Days of Activism that follow, raising awareness and encouraging action to end violence against women and girls. Through events, campaigns, and community engagement, we remain committed to fostering a safer community for everyone.
Look out for further details in our upcoming announcement later this week.