Around 1,500 white bulbs have been planted in Pearson Park this morning, to mark national White Ribbon Day. Representatives from Hull City Council, Humberside Police, local support organisations, volunteers and pupils from Stepney Primary and St Vincent’s Primary came together to plant the flowers. White Ribbon Day is recognised every year, providing an opportunity for men to pledge their commitment to ending violence against woman and girls.
Today’s planting is part of wider targeted partnership work led by the Safer Hull team, with funding from the OPCC, in the Pearson Park area. So far, support has been given to increase the police patrolling within the area to disrupt Anti-Social behaviour. An environmental audit has also been conducted with support from Alison Ashton of Hull Women’s Aid to identify what can be done to make the park feel safer for everyone, particularly women and girls. Conducted by Hull City Council’s parks and gardens team, careful work has taken place to cut back shrubs and trees to increase visibility without disturbing the local ecosystem. The project will also see the implementation of new CCTV provision within the park itself.
Each year, White Ribbon Day has a specific theme – this year, the message is: it starts with men. The aim is to address men’s behaviours and attitudes which contribute to the day-to-day fear of violence women experience. Men are asked to hold themselves accountable to women and each other, to affect positive behaviour change.
Nationally, White Ribbon Day marks the start of 16 days of action, concluding on December 10. In Hull and the wider Humber region, multiple live screenings will take place of Love?, a documentary based on lived experience of domestic violence.
Cllr Linda Tock, whose portfolio includes domestic violence, said: “This year’s White Ribbon Day theme is about the power men have every day to make a difference. Violence against women and girls is upheld and perpetuated. It could be cat-calling, misogynistic remarks in the pub or a group chat; calling out the things you see and hear that just aren’t right.
“As a council, we’ve had White Ribbon status since 2015 – it underscores our commitment to tackling violence against women. Our domestic abuse teams work every day with our partners in Humberside Police and other organisations to prevent violence and support survivors. White Ribbon Day and the 16 days of action that follow are an opportunity for everyone – but particularly men – to understand their role in keeping women and girls safe.
“The 1,000 bulbs will be a striking visual representation of the city-wide commitment we all have, and to making parks places that are safe for everyone”.
Humberside Police Superintendent Caroline Andrews said: “Our dedicated teams from our Protecting Vulnerable People Unit and Domestic Abuse Safeguarding Investigation Teams are deeply committed to ensuring that the voice of any domestic abuse victim or survivor is heard, and work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.
“Policing domestic abuse presents significant challenges, but with the collective effort of our community we can make a meaningful difference. Together we can ensure that victims are heard, supported, and protected, and create a community of respect and safety for everyone.
“We take all reports of domestic abuse extremely seriously and are committed to working with our partners and communities to ensure those affected feel safe, and live free from violence and abuse.
“If you or someone you know is suffering domestic abuse of violence in any form, I would urge you to please come forward. You can contact us on our non-emergency 101 number or always call 999 in an emergency.
“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can report via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Women experiencing domestic abuse can also contact Hull DAP in confidence, on: 01482 318 759, search ‘Hull DAP’ or email: hull.dap@hullcc.gov.uk. The internet can be accessed for free at any Hull library or customer service centre.
