Make your pledge to end domestic violence

Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Partnership has announced its support for this year’s White Ribbon Day.

The campaign, which is marked on Thursday, November 25, urges people to wear a white ribbon as a pledge against violence against women.

There are 5,000 domestic incidents reported to police each year in Cheshire East, with many more incidents unreported. Nationally, 2 women per week die as a result of domestic violence and it affects one in four women and one in six men during their lives.

Cheshire East Council, along with their partners at the Primary Care Trust, Cheshire Police, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Probation Service, are hoping to raise awareness by stocking the white ribbons in their buildings. They are available, for a small donation, from East Council offices at Westfields, Sandbach, Macclesfield Town Hall and Delamere House, Crewe.

Cheshire East Domestic Partnership is working with Macclesfield and Crewe Rugby Clubs to raise awareness about White Ribbon Day. These clubs have welcomed the opportunity to send a strong message that abuse is never acceptable.

Cheshire East Councillor Roland Domleo, Cabinet member with responsibility for adult services, said:

“It is important we work with our partners to do all we can to reduce incidents of domestic violence across Cheshire East. Wearing a white ribbon shows that we will not ‘commit, condone or stay silent’ about violence against women. It is this kind of strong community rejection of abuse which will really keep adults and children safe.

“Just one death – woman, man or child - as a result of domestic violence is one too many.”

Cheshire East Councillor Andrew Knowles, Cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing is on the committee of the Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Partnership:

“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home. I would urge anyone, man or woman, who is experiencing domestic violence or knows someone who is, to contact the Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit local Family Safety Unit, in confidence, on 01244 613532 or contact the national domestic violence free 24 hour helpline on 0808 2000247.”