White Ribbon Accreditation

Brecon Town Council’s Commitment to Ending Violence Against Women and Girls

Brecon Town Council is a White Ribbon UK Accredited Organisation, demonstrating its commitment to ending men’s violence against women and girls and promoting a culture of respect, equality and safety within the community.

White Ribbon Accreditation is a long-term commitment rather than a one-off award. Accredited organisations are required to develop and deliver a three-year Action Plan that embeds White Ribbon principles into leadership, policies, working practices and community engagement.

What is White Ribbon?

White Ribbon is the UK’s leading organisation engaging men and boys to prevent violence against women and girls. It works to challenge attitudes and behaviours that enable abuse and promotes positive, respectful and non-violent relationships.

The movement is underpinned by the White Ribbon Promise:

“I promise never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls.”

White Ribbon’s aim is to prevent violence before it happens, encourage men to be active allies, and help create safer communities for everyone.

Our Accreditation and Leadership

Brecon Town Council formally resolved to seek White Ribbon Accreditation in September 2023, with accreditation granted in June 2024.

Councillor John Powell has been appointed as Strategic Lead and Lead Contact for White Ribbon, responsible for coordinating delivery of the Action Plan and reporting progress annually to White Ribbon UK.

A dedicated White Ribbon Working Group, made up of White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions, oversees implementation and ensures ongoing progress.

What the Council is Doing

Brecon Town Council’s White Ribbon Action Plan focuses on four key areas:

Strategic Leadership

Embedding White Ribbon principles into Council policies and procedures
Aligning approaches with national expectations on violence against women and girls
Including White Ribbon commitments within procurement and contractor processes
Working with partners such as the police and local venues to promote safer public spaces

Engaging Men and Boys

Promoting the White Ribbon Promise among councillors, staff and volunteers
Supporting White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions
Encouraging positive conversations about respect, consent and allyship

Changing Culture

Providing training on violence against women and girls and positive allyship
Promoting a zero-tolerance approach to sexist, harassing or abusive behaviour
Ensuring clear, accessible reporting and support mechanisms

Raising Awareness

Marking White Ribbon Day
Promoting White Ribbon messaging through Council communications
Supporting local events and initiatives that raise awareness and empower women
Encouraging partner organisations to consider White Ribbon Accreditation

A Long-Term Commitment

White Ribbon Accreditation reflects Brecon Town Council’s ongoing commitment to leadership, accountability and cultural change. Through sustained action and partnership working, the Council aims to contribute to a safer, more respectful and inclusive community for all.

Contacts that can help:

Women’s Aid

Welsh Women’s Aid is the national charity in Wales working to end violence against women and girls in all its forms and runs: Live Fear Free helpline | GOV.WALES

You can also text 07860 077333. Providing help and advice about violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

If you, a family member a friend, or someone you are concerned about has experienced domestic abuse or sexual violence, you can contact the Live Fear Free Helpline 24 hours a day 7 days a week, for free advice and support or to talk through your options.

Get in touch with Live Fear Free advisors free of charge by phone, online chat, text or email.

Calan DVS

About Calan DVS

Calan DVS delivers trauma informed programmes which take a whole family approach and deliver a specific programme and community service for female and male victims of domestic abuse.

What will happen when I ask for help?

Our team of Domestic Violence Specialist Support Workers will arrange to meet with you in a safe and confidential space (one of our one stop shops/community offices) at a time that is convenient for you.

We will listen, without judgement and complete a risk assessment based around the domestic violence that you are experiencing. Our workers will identify where we can support you to keep you safe and provide you with advice and guidance depending on your needs. Our support is bespoke and is based around your needs and expectations.

Claire’s Law / Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS)

Are you in a relationship and worried that your partner may have been abusive in the past?

Under Clare’s Law, you have the right to:

Make an application to the police requesting information about your current or ex-partner, because you are worried they may have been abusive in the past and believe they may pose a risk to you in future.
Request information from the police about the current or ex-partner of a close friend, neighbour or family member, because you are concerned that they might be at risk of domestic abuse in future.