Ellesmere Town Council has joined the White Ribbon Campaign which stands up against male violence against women and girls.

White Ribbon Day (November 25) sees many buildings across the UK and beyond lit up in white and posters displayed urging people to Speak Up against long established and harmful attitudes and behaviours regarding masculinity.

The council has become a White Ribbon accredited organisation, joining the Shropshire Speaks Up campaign.

A spokesperson for the council said:

“By joining forces, we can make a real difference and ensure the ‘Shropshire speaks up’ message is heard in every throughout every community.

“We want to encourage others stand up against male violence against women and girls, supporting the White Ribbon Promise: “Never to use, excuse, or remain silent about men’s violence against women.”

“ White Ribbon is a global initiative whose mission is to prevent violence against women and girls by addressing its root causes. It aims to end violence before it starts by changing long established, and harmful, attitudes, systems and behaviours around masculinity that perpetuate gender inequality and men’s violence against women.”

This year’s theme for White Ribbon day is #ChangeTheStory.

“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. “

White Ribbon posters are on display in Ellesmere and more information about the campaign how people can seek help is available on its website.