West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster has reaffirmed his commitment to preventing and tackling violence against women and girls on White Ribbon Day, calling on everyone across the region to play their part in ending harassment, abuse and misogyny.
The PCC, who lists preventing and tackling violence against women and girls as a top priority, said the day serves as an important reminder that real and lasting change requires collective action. Keeping women and girls safe, is everyone’s responsibility, every day of the year.
As part of this year’s theme, We Speak Up, he urged men and boys in particular to demonstrate upstander behaviour, challenge harmful attitudes, to set an example and call out unacceptable behaviour and support women and girls who may be at risk.
“The message of White Ribbon Day is clear: we all have a role to play and action we can take.” the PCC said.
“Allowing sexist and misogynistic behaviour to pass unchallenged is unacceptable. It is abusive, intimidating and offensive. It contributes to creating an environment in which women can become victims of violence and abuse. This White Ribbon Day, we want more men to use their voices, to challenge and change attitudes and to speak up, to create a world where all women and girls are safe, equal and respected.
He added: “Ending violence against women and girls is not only about policing. It demands cultural change, community leadership and the courage to speak out. Upstander behaviour can change and save lives. It encourages respect, challenges misogyny and ensures that silence is never an option. There is never an excuse for abuse.”
“We are making progress, but we must go further,” he added. “White Ribbon Day is a moment to reflect – but more importantly, it is a call to collective action. I remain determined to ensure women and girls in the West Midlands can live their lives free from fear, harm, violence, abuse and intimidation.”
The PCC also highlighted the extensive work delivered by his office to support women, improve safety and strengthen prevention across the West Midlands. This includes major investment in specialist domestic abuse and sexual violence support services, funding for independent advocates who help victims navigate the criminal justice system, and programmes aimed at early intervention and behaviour change for perpetrators.
Back to News Archive