Landmarks lit across the city in support for White Ribbon Day

The campaign encourages everyone to wear a white ribbon to symbolise a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

Held annually, the national campaign focuses on the role that all men and boys can play to end violence against women and girls by safely challenging harmful attitudes and behaviour.

And partners across the city are working together to encourage everyone to play their part to bring an end to gender-based violence.

A campaign, developed by WWiN and supported by the council and other partners, shares information about the role we can all play to safely challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours.

The City Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities, Councillor Kelly Chequer said: "I proudly wear a White Ribbon to honour the memory of those lost to domestic abuse, to support those impacted by it, and to stand with the campaign to end gender-based violence. Statistics show domestic abuse is more common than people may think but we can all make a difference.

"There is a collective commitment from the council and our partners to make a positive difference across our city, and in recent months we have been working alongside those with lived experience of domestic abuse to inform our future plans."

WWIN Chief Executive, Laura Seebohm, said: "WWIN has been delivering specialist domestic abuse support services in Sunderland for over 40 years, and sadly, the need for our work remains as urgent as ever.  We work in close collaboration with a range of partners across the city, all committed to tackling violence against women and girls. 

"This latest campaign is an important part of the work we do together, to raise awareness of violence against women and girls.  We're delighted to conclude the campaign with our event on December 9th at Sunderland Minster (6pm-8pm), bringing the community together to take a powerful stand against domestic abuse."

Find more about White Ribbon Day and how you can make a difference at: www.wwin.org.uk/white-ribbon-16-days-of-activism 

City landmarks including, Penshaw Monument, the Northern Spire Bridge, Cliffe Park Lighthouse at Seaburn, Silksworth Wheel and

Fulwell Mill will be lit this Monday in support of the campaign.