White Ribbon pledge made in Bolton town centre

The Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Nick Peel, along with The Mayor of Bolton, Chief Executive, Sue Johnson, local councillors and members of the Corporate Leadership Team met at the iconic Knife Angel monument to pledge support.

White Ribbon UK works to prevent violence against women and girls by men and aims to stop violence before it starts.

This year, White Ribbon encourages individuals and organisations to make consistent choices and actions to change the story so that women and girls can live their lives free from the fear of violence.

Violence experienced by women and girls takes many forms. S

ome behaviours and words may seem ‘harmless’ but normalising them ignores the short and long-term effects and can lead to more extreme violence.

Being allies with women every day shouldn’t be underestimated — even the smallest actions can affect big change.

White Ribbon Day took place on Saturday 25 November, also coincides with the 1st day of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

It  was held in front of the Knife Angel sculpture.

Bolton Council cabinet member for stronger communities, Cllr Rabiya Jiva said: “Campaigns like this make people think about things that may be going on around them and I’m proud to be part of trying to support women and girls.

“I’d urge everybody to get involved and help protect those that may be suffering in silence.”

Councillors and officials gathered at the Knife Angel monument (Image: Bolton Council)

Experts say that violence experienced by women and girls takes many forms and that some behaviours and words may seem “harmless” but normalising them ignores the short and long-term effects and can lead to more extreme violence.

Supporters of the White Ribbon campaign say that even the smallest actions can affect big changes and that being allies with women can be hugely important.

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Further events are also planned in the near future including a candlelit vigil and Christmas concert, organised by Endeavour, at the Parish Church on December 8 2023 at 6pm in support of those experiencing domestic abuse and remembering those that have died.

Cllr Peel said: “I’m proud to support the White Ribbon campaign and I’m committed to helping to end violence against women and girls.

“It’s important that people feel safe in Bolton and even small things we can do to make changes will have a positive impact.”