DAS and football players show support for White Ribbon Day
CARMARTHEN Domestic Abuse Services (CARMDAS) has teamed up with Carmarthen Town AFC to show support for White Ribbon Day, the international campaign to end violence against women and girls.
Between White Ribbon Day, which was on November 25, until Human Rights Day on December 10, there are 16 ‘Days of Action’ and a chance to highlight 11 traits men and boys can nurture to help create a world of equality and safety for women.
CARMDAS chief executive officer Colleen Bennett said: “We’re pleased to be working with Carmarthen Town Football Club to raise the awareness of violence against women and girls and White Ribbon Day.
“This year, White Ribbon Day fell on the same week as the start of the men’s FIFA World Cup and the focus of the campaign is around football to ensure #Thegoal of all men joining the team to end violence against women and girls.”
She added: “We know that violence against women happens across our communities in Carmarthenshire.
“CARMDAS have been providing independent, specialist support to individuals and families affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence since 1978.
“Over the last year we’ve seen the largest number of referrals in our 44-year history supporting 462 adults in the community and accommodating 27 women and 23 children in our refuge.
“We know that Christmas is a difficult time for many and CARMDAS is here to help individuals and families in Carmarthen.
“If you would like to support our work in Carmarthen and the surrounding areas, you can donate to our Christmas appeal through our website too.”
Speaking on behalf of Carmarthen Town AFC, communities manager Paul Ashley-jones said: “We are proud of our partnership with CARMDAS and understand the importance of showing that we as a club support the White Ribbon campaign, and urge our supporters to stand together to end violence against women and girls.
“In order to end violence against women, it’s vital that men are part of the discussion and the club is showing our support by pledging never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women and girls and urging our supporters to do the same.”
More information on the support CARMDAS provides can be found on its website www.carmdas.org or by calling the Live Fear Free national free helpline on 0808 80 10 800.