Today, on White Ribbon Day, the Welsh Government calls on men to
take a stand as allies to end violence against women and girls.
White Ribbon Day, which marks the International Day for the
Elimination of Violence Against Women, also launches the 16 Days
of Activism, a global campaign to end gender-based violence.
In Wales, between 2018 and 2023, recorded incidents of violence
against women and girls increased by 37%. At least one in 12
women experiences male violence each year, though the true
numbers are likely much higher.
The Welsh Government's ‘Sound' campaign engages with young men
and boys across Wales about respect and accountability. The
campaign tackles issues like gaslighting and coercive control and
uses positive role models to promote healthy, respectful
relationships. By reaching over 95% of young men in Wales - more
than 380,000 people - it is helping to challenge harmful cultures
and create a society where women can feel safe.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, , said: “Every woman has
the right to live free from fear, violence, and exploitation.
Violence against women and girls is not inevitable - it is
preventable.
"Our Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence
Strategy sets out a commitment to make early intervention and
prevention a priority, and to encourage those who may go on to
commit abusive behaviour to change.
"The Sound campaign encourages men aged 18-34 in Wales to learn
about gender-based violence and to think about their own
behaviours. It is not for women to modify their behaviour; it is
for men and boys to reflect on their own and make changes."
This year, Sound has partnered with White Ribbon to launch the
Sound Ally guide, offering young men practical steps to support
women and challenge harmful behaviours. The guide emphasizes the
power of everyday actions, like calling out inappropriate
language and listening to women's experiences.
35-year-old Cal Roberts from Bagillt in
Flintshire began to realise the importance of communication in
healthy relationships when he got involved with the Sound
campaign. He always makes a conscious effort now to assess his
behaviour towards his current partner, after experiencing a time
in his life when he admits he displayed unhealthy behaviour in
his romantic relationships.
He said: “Understanding what healthy relationships look like is
key in helping us recognise behaviours like misogyny,
gaslighting, or love bombing - things somebody might not have
realised are harmful. When you know how damaging these behaviours
are, you can start to call them out and make sure you're not
contributing to the problem.
“I think if Sound had been around when I was in my 20s, then it
would've healed my issues a lot quicker and made me address my
behaviours a lot sooner.
“All of us need to understand that we can, and must, have a role
in ending violence against women and girls. This is how we begin
to make real and lasting change. It all starts with one act, one
conversation - and it makes all the difference.”
To learn more about how you can take action, visit Sound |
GOV.WALES.
Women can contact the Live Fear Free helpline,
available 24 hours a day, for support and advice:
If you're in immediate danger and cannot talk safely, dial
999 followed by 55 to alert the
police.
Notes to editors
The Welsh Government's
Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse, and Sexual Violence
Strategy 2022-2026prioritises prevention, education, and
collaboration, with robust support for survivors and a commitment
to creating a safer future for all.
The White Ribbon is the globally recognised symbol to end men's
violence against women and girls. White Ribbon Day is 25 November
2024. For more information, visit White Ribbon UK.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence run from
25th November (White Ribbon Day) to 10th December (Human Rights
Day). Learn more at 16 Days of Activism.
