PCC supports Bedfordshire Police to combat Male Violence Against Women and Girls on White Ribbon Day

Bedfordshire Police pledges to continue its drive to end male violence against women and girls on White Ribbon Day by sending a stark message to perpetrators to change their behaviour now or face the consequences.

The force is calling on everyone to unite and take action against male violence against women and girls by supporting White Ribbon Day today (Tuesday).

Each year, 25 November marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls (White Ribbon Day) which in turn is the start of the 16 Days of Action campaign against gender-based violence.

Running until 10 December, the campaign focuses on challenging perpetrators, preventing abuse and creating safer communities for everyone.

During the 16-day period, the force will work with partners to raise awareness of gender-based violence – including domestic abuse, rape, sexual assault, harassment and stalking – issue clear warnings to offenders and highlight the support available for those affected.

The force’s Emerald proactive arrest team targets offenders by making arrests, gathering intelligence, driving manhunts, and securing warrants. The team also monitors civil orders, such as domestic violence protection orders, enabling a more assertive approach to tracking and disrupting perpetrators.

Last week 12 arrests were made across the county, which included six high risk suspects, which brings the year-to-date total to over 270.

Detective Chief Superintendent Zara Brown, Bedfordshire Police’s lead for tackling male violence against women and girls, said: “Gender-based violence is a choice made by perpetrators. It can take many forms – physical, emotional, financial, and coercive control – and its impact is devastating.

“During this campaign we are urging people to think about their own behaviours and attitudes that contribute to a fear of violence for women, and how to identify harmful behaviour early on before it escalates.

“Violence against women and girls is a crime. If you choose to harm, abuse, or control someone, you will be held accountable. We will find you, stop you, and bring you to justice. There are no excuses, and you will have to face the consequences of your actions.”

Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Tizard said: "I’m proud to stand as an ambassador for White Ribbon Day.  Men, in particular, have a vital role to play in challenging the attitudes and behaviours that lead to abuse against women and girls.

“We must work together to change mindsets, change behaviours, and enforce the law so that every woman and girl feels safe and protected.

“White Ribbon Day is an opportunity for all of us to recommit to standing up for the rights of women and girls —especially those in Bedfordshire who may feel at risk today and every day.”

For more information on Bedfordshire Police’s efforts for 16 Days of Action, including signposting to support, visit https://www.beds.police.uk/police-forces/bedfordshire-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/16-days-of-action/

If you need to report abuse, contact the police on 101 or use the online reporting tool. In emergencies, always call 999.

Bedfordshire Police pledges to continue its drive to end male violence against women and girls on White Ribbon Day by sending a stark message to perpetrators to change their behaviour now or face the consequences.

The force is calling on everyone to unite and take action against male violence against women and girls by supporting White Ribbon Day today (Tuesday).

Each year, 25 November marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls (White Ribbon Day) which in turn is the start of the 16 Days of Action campaign against gender-based violence.

Running until 10 December, the campaign focuses on challenging perpetrators, preventing abuse and creating safer communities for everyone.

During the 16-day period, the force will work with partners to raise awareness of gender-based violence – including domestic abuse, rape, sexual assault, harassment and stalking – issue clear warnings to offenders and highlight the support available for those affected.

The force’s Emerald proactive arrest team targets offenders by making arrests, gathering intelligence, driving manhunts, and securing warrants. The team also monitors civil orders, such as domestic violence protection orders, enabling a more assertive approach to tracking and disrupting perpetrators.

Last week 12 arrests were made across the county, which included six high risk suspects, which brings the year-to-date total to over 270.

Detective Chief Superintendent Zara Brown, Bedfordshire Police’s lead for tackling male violence against women and girls, said: “Gender-based violence is a choice made by perpetrators. It can take many forms – physical, emotional, financial, and coercive control – and its impact is devastating.

“During this campaign we are urging people to think about their own behaviours and attitudes that contribute to a fear of violence for women, and how to identify harmful behaviour early on before it escalates.

“Violence against women and girls is a crime. If you choose to harm, abuse, or control someone, you will be held accountable. We will find you, stop you, and bring you to justice. There are no excuses, and you will have to face the consequences of your actions.”

Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Tizard said: "I’m proud to stand as an ambassador for White Ribbon Day.  Men, in particular, have a vital role to play in challenging the attitudes and behaviours that lead to abuse against women and girls.

“We must work together to change mindsets, change behaviours, and enforce the law so that every woman and girl feels safe and protected.

“White Ribbon Day is an opportunity for all of us to recommit to standing up for the rights of women and girls —especially those in Bedfordshire who may feel at risk today and every day.”

For more information on Bedfordshire Police’s efforts for 16 Days of Action, including signposting to support, visit https://www.beds.police.uk/police-forces/bedfordshire-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/16-days-of-action/

If you need to report abuse, contact the police on 101 or use the online reporting tool. In emergencies, always call 999.