A campaign which engages men and boys to prevent violence against women and girls is the focus of work in Hull schools, including in both primary and secondary settings.
Today – Tuesday 25 November – is White Ribbon Day and is the start of 16 days of activities where this year’s theme is ‘We Speak Up!’.
Men are encouraged to use their voices to speak up to create a world where everyone is safe, equal and respected.
Way of speaking up include not laughing at sexist ‘jokes’ or ‘banter’, backing up others who call bad behaviour out, or removing themselves from group chats where sexist comments are made.
As put by the charity White Ribbon UK: “Letting sexism slide puts women and girls at risk.
“Sexist jokes, catcalling, staring, and comments might seem harmless, but they are serious because they can lead to violence and abuse.
“Every time we ignore something that doesn’t feel right, we miss a chance to set a better example.”
Hull City Council has had White Ribbon status since 2015, underscoring a commitment to tackling violence against women and girls.
Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Councillor Ted Dolman, said: “We absolutely support anyone who speaks out to prevent the type of behaviour that ultimately can lead to women and girls suffering unacceptable violence and abuse.
“I’m really pleased that the campaign is being focussed on within our schools.
“Our Young Lord Mayor is helping to recruit 10 Young People Youth Ambassadors from each secondary school in Hull.
“They will receive training to allow them to deliver programmes to their fellow young people within their schools.
“These programmes, supported by onsite champions and ambassadors, will support the aim to end gender-based violence.”
Hull City Council also has an ongoing internal campaign, which includes encouraging men across the organisation to reflect on their attitudes and actions, and to hold themselves accountable – to women and to each other.
The Chief Executive of Hull City Council, Matt Jukes, said: “As an employer, it’s vital that we understand our responsibilities in creating a safer, more inclusive workplace for everyone, including those who have sadly experienced domestic abuse.
“We have training for staff that provides essential guidance on recognising signs of abuse, supporting colleagues, and understanding what is required of us.
“We have in place a Domestic Abuse Policy, which reinforces our duty of care and ensures that all employees affected by domestic abuse have access to the support, guidance and resources they need.
“We are also establishing a Hull City Council domestic abuse survivor forum, where we’ve asked staff for their help to create a respectful and empowering safe space in a confidential environment.
“Their insight is invaluable to help us create safer, more responsive workplace approaches and practices to what is a very important issue.”
Hull City Council’s domestic abuse teams work every day with partners across the city to prevent violence and abuse and support survivors.
Detective Chief Inspector Nathan Reuben, Humberside Police’s force lead for White Ribbon, said: “As a White Ribbon accredited force, we proudly stand with the movement to challenge harmful attitudes and raise awareness.
“We are committed to working with our partners to prevent male violence against women and girls, promoting a culture of respect, safety, and accountability.”
A support service for women experiencing domestic abuse is offered by the Hull Domestic Abuse Partnership.
The team can be contacted on 01482 318 759, or there’s more information via Hull DAP – Hull DAP.
Additional information and help is available for anyone experiencing domestic abuse via Domestic Abuse | Hull.
For more information on this year’s White Ribbon Day visit White Ribbon Day 2025 — White Ribbon UK.
