LEADING members of Carmarthenshire County Council are again backing the White Ribbon Campaign against domestic abuse.
Council Leader Emlyn Dole, Chairman Cllr Irfon Jones, Chief Executive Mark James, Director of Community Services Jake Morgan, Director of Education and Children’s Services Gareth Morgans and Communities and Safeguarding Manager Anthony Maynard have signed the campaign’s pledge not to commit or condone violence against women and girls.
Every week, two women in the UK are murdered by a current or former partner. While the number of incidents tends to be under-reported, the number of high risk cases dealt with locally continues to increase.
The council is supporting the White Ribbon Campaign which focuses on targeting violence against women by men and boys and promoting respectful relationships. It is led by men who are willing to take a stand against violence against women and girls and to be positive role models to other men in their community. White Ribbon Day is on Saturday November 25.
The sixth annual Candlelit Walk to remember women who have lost their lives as a result of male violence will be held in Carmarthen town centre on Thursday November 23. The walk assemble from 5pm at St Catherine’s Walk shopping centre by the Drover’s sculpture where candles will be distributed.
The walk will set off at 5.30pm towards the Guildhall steps, where flowers will be placed to remember women and girls who have been affected by male violence. This will be followed by speeches at St Peter’s Hall where refreshments will be available. Everyone is invited.
Leader Cllr Emlyn Dole said: “I want to give my full backing to this campaign. We must do all we can to prevent all forms of domestic abuse and to change the perception and stigma around it.
“The council is working alongside community safety partners to tackle domestic abuse, in all its forms, against both sexes. While the majority of victims are women and girls, domestic abuse affects both sexes. The council provides and funds services which give help and support for men and women.”
Chair Cllr Irfon Jones said: “This campaign to tackle domestic abuse deserves the support of men and boys in Carmarthenshire and I would urge them to sign this pledge.”
Chief Executive Mark James said: “People must feel confident to speak out about domestic abuse secure in the knowledge that there is support available from local organisations.”
“The Council will be working with partners to seek accreditation for a White Ribbon Campaign award. This demonstrates our ongoing commitment to reduce domestic abuse, raise awareness of this crime and the support available locally for survivors.”
For support and information about local services available to both men and women, contact the free, confidential, 24 hour All Wales telephone helpline, Live Fear Free – contact 0808 80 10 800, www.livefearfree.gov.wales
Local services for both male and female survivors: Amman Valley – Calan 01269 597474/594839; Carmarthen – CDAS 01267 238410; Llanelli – Threshold 01554 752422.
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