Standing Against Violence Towards Women and Girls

Standing Against Violence Towards Women and Girls  

This White Ribbon Day, which marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and the launch of 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign to end gender-based violence. Violence against women and girls is a serious issue in Wales between 2018 and 2023, recorded incidents rose by 37%, and at least one in 12 women experiences male violence each year, with the true numbers likely higher. 

I fully support the Welsh Government’s Sound campaign, which engages young men and boys across Wales about respect, accountability, and healthy relationships. The campaign tackles issues like gaslighting and coercive control and uses positive role models to challenge harmful cultures. By reaching more than 380,000 young men (which is over 95% of the target audience) it is helping to create a society where women and girls can feel safe. 

Sound also works with White Ribbon to launch the Sound Ally guide, giving young men practical steps to support women and challenge harmful behaviours, from calling out inappropriate language to listening to women’s experiences. Stories like that of Cal Roberts from Bagillt in Flintshire show the real-life impact of this work. Cal realised the importance of communication in healthy relationships and now actively reflects on his behaviour, understanding how harmful actions like gaslighting or misogyny can affect others. 

All of us have a role to play in ending violence against women and girls. Change starts with one act, one conversation, and every effort counts. To learn more about how you can take action, visit the  Sound website: https://www.gov.wales/sound 

Women seeking support can contact the Live Fear Free helpline, available 24/7: 

• Call (free): 0808 8010 800 

• Text: 0786 007 7333 

• Email: [email protected] 

• Live chat: Live Fear Free helpline | GOV.WALES
  If you’re in immediate danger and cannot speak safely, dial 999 followed by 55 to alert the police. 

To find out more visit: https://www.gov.wales/allies-heart-change-ending-violence-against-women-starts-men