Men from across the Fylde coast urged to act to end violence against women and girls
“Every man and boy from anywhere across the Fylde coast can help women and girls feel safer”
Men and boys who live, work or volunteer across the Fylde coast are being asked to sign up to help challenge harassment and prevent violence against women and girls.
The office of Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, is recruiting for a new White Ribbon Male Ambassador Network asking men to take the #GotTheMessage campaign into their workplaces, sports clubs and communities.
Ambassadors will complete White Ribbon training, share campaign messages with their networks and encourage other men and boys to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviour.
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Commissioner Grunshaw said: “Every man and boy from anywhere across the Fylde coast can help women and girls feel safer. Becoming an ambassador is a way to get involved, with training and support to help you. You don’t need any experience, just a willingness to listen, learn and encourage others.
“Talking with friends, supporting colleagues or setting a good example in your community can all make a difference. We’d love you to sign up and help make the Fylde Coast a place where women and girls feel safe and respected.”
The call comes ahead of White Ribbon Day on November 25 and builds on the #GetTheMessage campaign, which highlights the impact of catcalling, intrusive staring, unwanted comments and online harassment, encouraging men and boys to recognise the harm these behaviours cause and feel confident challenging them safely.
#GetTheMessage was developed following a survey of 4,809 women and girls across Lancashire. Of those who responded, 93 per cent said they changed their daily behaviour to stay safe.
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The new network will support men and boys to turn what they have heard from women into positive action, with an ambassador pack and toolkit to help them share campaign messages, involve others and promote respect for women and girls.
Ambassadors will also be invited to the network’s launch on December 10. The event will include workshops exploring the support available to ambassadors and ways to encourage other men and boys to get involved in the wider campaign. Attendance is optional, with full details, including the venue, to be confirmed.
Employers, sports clubs, community groups, White Ribbon-accredited organisations and campaign partners are encouraged to share the opportunity and invite people to sign up at www.whiteribbon.org.uk/ambassadors-champions
More about #GetTheMessage at www.getthemessage.uk and @getthemessage_ on Instagram.