Bridgend men make a stand to end domestic abuse
Popular Bridge FM DJ Lee Jukes and members of Bridgend Town RFC are among a number of men who backed Safer Bridgend in supporting the International White Ribbon Campaign held on 25th November each year for the eradication of violence against women.
People suffer from domestic abuse regardless of their sex, age, social class, religion, culture, ability, sexuality or lifestyle. It is any violent or abusive behaviour by an intimate partner, ex-partner or any family member.
Lee Jukes said: “The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort in the world of men working to end men's violence against women. I’m proud to wear my ribbon and add my support to the campaign.
“Domestic abuse occurs in various ways; it can be emotional, financial, sexual or physical. As a man, wearing a ribbon is about challenging the acceptability of violence and helping women to break the silence.
Bridgend County Borough Council’s Domestic Abuse Co-ordinator Natalie Tanner said: “Domestic abuse is not a relationship problem; it is about one person gaining and maintaining control over another.
“Wearing a ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women. The White Ribbon is a symbol of hope for a world where women and girls can live free from the fear of violence.
“I would like to say to anyone reading this article and suffering from domestic abuse that it is not their fault and they do not have to put up with it. There is help at hand from the various organisations working together in Bridgend to tackle domestic abuse.
Bridgend Ravens RFC Captain Mathew Davies says Bridgend Ravens are proud to support the White Ribbon Campaign, I think it is vitally important that men take more responsibility for reducing the level of violence against women, we are proud to wear the White Ribbons and pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women"
Click here to view more photos of the White ribbon campaign 2009
Here are some useful contacts-
The Domestic Abuse Helpline - 0808 80 10 800 (24hours Confidential Freephone)
Bridgend Women’s Aid - 01656 766139
Bridgend Police - 101 In an emergency contact - 999
Bridgend Community Safety Partnership - 01656 679935/679945