Sports clubs wear campaign armbands to end violence against women

The initiative, organised by the combined efforts of Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion and West Mercia Police, forms part of the White Ribbon UK campaign.

The campaign, which this year has the theme of #ChangeTheStory, aims to engage men and boys in ending gender-based violence.

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In support of the cause Worcester City FC players donned these black armbands during their home match on Saturday, November 25 against Slimbridge FC.

The game was attended by deputy PCC Marc Bayliss, Mayor Louis Stephen, and police constables Mandie Gregg and Sean Haines from Worcester Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Over 800 of the armbands will be displayed in various sporting fixtures across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire over a 16-day period.

They will be worn by a diverse range of teams, including the Worcester Wolves basketball teams, Worcester City Women’s Football team, and numerous grassroots sports teams, showing solidarity for the campaign.

PCC John Campion said: "It’s important to not only be anti-violence against women and girls but be a vocal ally and call out harmful behaviour when we see it.

"As part of the White Ribbon campaign, this collaboration with West Mercia Police will see sports teams across West Mercia getting involved and wearing black armbands to stand up for women and spark conversation.

"Through my Safer West Mercia Plan, I am committed to making a real difference and this is only possible with the support of influential organisations in the region."

Assistant chief constable Rachel Jones added: As part of this year’s White Ribbon campaign, we have engaged with sports teams across the force area and this year we are asking individuals, especially men, to #ChangeTheStory for women and girls so that they may live their lives free from the fear of violence.

"It’s wonderful to see such a cross section of sports getting involved including football, basketball, netball, rugby and ice-hockey.

"By wearing the White Ribbon armbands, sportsmen and women across the force area will be showing their support never to use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women."