North Wales PCC Commits to Ending Gender-Based Violence on White Ribbon Day

The North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner, Andy Dunbobbin, has pledged to intensify efforts against gender-based violence during a visit coinciding with White Ribbon Day, a global initiative aimed at combating men’s violence towards women and girls. The campaign seeks to address the root causes of this violence by altering entrenched attitudes and behaviors associated with masculinity.

White Ribbon Day, observed annually, is spearheaded in the UK by White Ribbon UK, the leading charity focused on engaging men and boys to end violence against women. In North Wales, various local services provide crucial support to women facing domestic abuse. These include the Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU) and the Victim Help Centre, both of which offer confidential assistance tailored to the needs of survivors.

During his visit to DASU in Colwyn Bay, Dunbobbin was accompanied by Mabon ap Gwynfor, a Member of the Senedd, and Beca Brown, a councillor for Cyngor Gwynedd. The group met with Gaynor McKeown, CEO of DASU, to gain insights into the essential services offered and to discuss the increasing number of older victims seeking help. They also addressed the concerning rise in misogyny among younger populations, which is impacting girls in schools across North Wales.

On the same day, Dunbobbin and ap Gwynfor visited the Victim Help Centre, where they learned about the support provided to crime victims and the operations of the North Wales Victims’ Panel. This panel allows victims to share their experiences and provide feedback on the criminal justice process, with the aim of improving services for future victims.

In his remarks, Dunbobbin stated, “Ending this kind of violence is a personal mission of mine and it forms a core part of my Police and Crime Plan for North Wales. The services I commission as PCC, such as DASU and the Victim Help Centre, offer support and advice to victims of domestic abuse across North Wales, and I know how valued their work is. As a White Ribbon Ambassador, I am determined to play my part in bringing all gender-based violence to an end both in North Wales and beyond.”

The visit was also praised by McKeown, who expressed appreciation for Dunbobbin’s ongoing support of DASU and its affiliated organizations. She highlighted that such visits play a vital role in raising awareness of violence against women and girls (VAWG) and in showcasing the critical services available to victims throughout Wales.

Sioned Jacobsen, Senior Operations Manager at Victim Support North Wales, underscored the significance of White Ribbon Day, stating, “Ending violence against women and girls means challenging harmful attitudes and behaviors. The Victim Help Centre provides free, confidential, and independent support to anyone affected by crime across North Wales, whether or not they’ve reported it. Every day, we see the impact of domestic abuse and gender-based violence, and we work tirelessly to help victims feel safe, heard, and supported.”

The collective efforts of these organizations and officials highlight a commitment to creating a safer environment for all individuals in North Wales, aiming to foster a culture of respect and understanding. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, the hope remains that a significant reduction in gender-based violence can be achieved through persistent advocacy and support services.