Local football match kick starts the White Ribbon Campaign in Bridgend County Borough

White Ribbon Day, 25 November 2022, falls on the same week as the start of FIFA men’s world cup this year and Bridgend County Borough Council is aptly supporting the campaign through arranging a football match with a difference!

Organised by the council’s Assia Domestic Abuse Service, staff from South Wales Police and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service will be going head-to-head in the one-off match to support White Ribbon Day and help end the abuse of women and girls.

White Ribbon is the leading UK charity engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls. Men wearing the White Ribbon are stating that they will never commit, excuse, or remain silent about men's violence against women.

South Wales Police Chief Constable, Jeremy Vaughan, said:

I am proud that we are supporting the #WhiteRibbonUK campaign which gives us the opportunity to reaffirm the White Ribbon promise to never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women.

We recognise that anyone can be a victim of abuse, however women are more likely to experience violence and abuse and the effects can be devastating.

I am grateful to our partners for working with us to tackle violence against women and girls, this is a priority for South Wales Police and the South Wales Police & Crime Commissioner.

Chief Fire Officer, Huw Jakeway QFSM, also adds:

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has been a White Ribbon accredited Service for many years, and we are all proud to work alongside our partners to raise awareness of #TheGoal.

I would encourage all men to join the team to end violence against women and girls. This match is an appropriate way of raising awareness of this important issue, especially because we often work alongside the police and community groups to combat the threat and effects of domestic abuse.

Councillor Rhys Goode, Cabinet Member for Wellbeing & Future Generations, also commenting on the forthcoming match, has said:

What a fantastic way for the Assia Domestic Abuse Service to promote and raise funds for such an important cause.

Assia offers a sterling service throughout the year, with the friendly and experienced team providing a range of support, including advice, guidance and refuge for those experiencing domestic abuse.

The match promises to be eventful, and we really hope that people will come along to offer their encouragement. The question on everyone’s lips is, ‘who will win?!’

With an admission fee of one pound, this unmissable charity match will take place on Friday 25 November 2022, from 1:45 pm to 4pm at Pen y Bont FC, Bryntirion Park, Llangewydd Rd, Bridgend CF31 4JU. 

All funds raised, including those from raffles, will be used to purchase safety items for victims of domestic abuse.