Prisoners give 'thumbs up' in support of anti-violence campaign

Male inmates from a Leicestershire prison have given their full support to a global campaign to eradicate violence against women.

The prisoners, from HMP Stocken, have volunteered their thumbprints in a symbolic pledge board in honour of The White Ribbon Campaign, which urges men to make a personal promise never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.  

The gesture was praised by Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach who has encouraged all men to make a pledge and help to create a future without male violence against women.

“Encouraging men to speak out against violence has a powerful impact on other men, inspiring them to take action or reflect on their own relationships,” said Willy Bach.

“I’m delighted these men took the opportunity to raise awareness of women’s experience of violence and using their voice to force change.

“Every one of us who has signed a White Ribbon pledge promises to never commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women. It is our responsibility as men to lead by example and I’m pleased so many, including those at HMP Stocken, are proud and willing to start that conversation.  

“I’m also delighted to be working with our partners in the Criminal Justice System to spread the message of this campaign and would like to thank them for their support.”

The pledge board was presented to Willy Bach and Deputy PCC Kirk Master by HMP Stocken’s Learning and Skills Development Manager, Phil Hunt. 

White Ribbon Day and the sixteen days of action is the largest campaign of its kind in the world.

Every year, on White Ribbon Day, men are encouraged to wear a white ribbon as a symbolic gesture of their solidarity with victims of abuse across the world.

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