The Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s office has successfully been awarded White Ribbon accreditation, matching his commitment to tackle violence against women and girls. 

White ribbon is the UK’s leading charity engaging men and boys to prevent gender-based violence. 

As part of the process, White Ribbon Champions and Ambassadors have been appointed from across the office’s Governance and Estates teams. 

In their roles they will implement a three-year plan advocating positive attitudes and behaviour, raising awareness of the impact of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) on victims and survivors and encouraging colleagues to make the White Ribbon promise. 

Playing a part in societal change, services commissioned by the PCC will also have to sign up as supporters of White Ribbon as part of the procurement process. 

They have kicked off the campaign by providing special armbands to sports organisations across the three counties.

At the launch of West Mercia’s campaign, Worcester City FC wore the black armbands during their home match against Slimbridge FC on Saturday, November 25. The armbands are a visual representation to show solidarity with and advocate for women and girls to end gender-based violence. 

Over 800 armbands have been distributed to be worn by players at their fixtures during the 16 days of action. Teams include Worcester Wolves basketball teams, Worcester City Women’s Football team, AFC Telford, netball teams across Shropshire, Herefordshire FA teams, Telford Hornets and Telford Tigers, plus many grassroots sports teams.

PCC, John Campion, said: “I am deeply aware that violence against women and girls is an issue that blights communities across West Mercia. 

“I am proud my office is now White Ribbon accredited, and I fully support the pledge to ensure I will never use, excuse, or remain silent about this issue.

“With the accreditation, the office has also made the conscious and deliberate choice to say no to a world where violence against women and girls happens all too often .

“It’s important to not only be anti-violence against women and girls but be a vocal ally and call out harmful behaviour when we see it. 

“As part of the White Ribbon campaign, this collaboration with West Mercia Police will see sports teams across West Mercia getting involved and wearing black armbands to stand up for women and spark conversation.”

Anthea Sully, Chief Executive of White Ribbon UK, said: “White Ribbon accredited organisations can make a real difference towards ending violence against women.

“We are delighted to welcome the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia as one of our White Ribbon Accredited Organisations and are looking forward to working with them.”