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'I Speak Up' A powerful message for Gwent this White Ribbon Day

‘I Speak Up’ A powerful message for Gwent this White Ribbon Day 

Domestic abuse affects 1 in 4 people, with the vast majority being women. White Ribbon Day is a global campaign that supports the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, that calls on men and boys to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours, and to play an active role in ending violence against women and girls.  

The Health Board is proud to stand alongside local organisations, sports clubs, and community groups to raise awareness about domestic abuse and encourage men to speak up and take action. 

Prof. Tracy Daszkiewicz, Director of Public Health for Gwent said: 

“Men and boys are vital partners in ending abuse.  We must challenge harmful ideas of masculinity that not only fuel violence and abuse against women but also damage the wellbeing of men and boys themselves. Creating healthier, more respectful norms benefits everyone. Domestic abuse is not just a private issue - it’s a public health concern. By working together with our partners, we want to send a clear message: everyone has a role to play in creating a safer Gwent. Speaking up can save lives.”  

The Health Board have united with Gwent Police, Dragons RFC, Newport RFC, Torfaen’s 4DadsByDads group, Newport School of Tae Kwon-Do, and Monmouthshire County Council and others to create a video and send a powerful message. 

 

The video concludes with Matt Brown, renowned TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and founder of the global movement ‘She Is Not Your Rehab’ who has brought his global movement to Gwent: 

 

“This movement is about more than just raising awareness - it’s about taking ownership of our healing, challenging the cycles we’ve inherited, and choosing to do the courageous work of becoming safe spaces for healing and connection. Gwent showed up with heart, honesty, and a real readiness for change. I’m humbled to have shared space with this community.” 

The campaign highlights how men can make a difference by speaking out, supporting survivors, and promoting respect in their homes, communities and workplaces. 

 

The campaign will be shared across the Health Boards social media channels and partner platforms on White Ribbon Day, 25th November, encouraging conversations and pledges to never commit, excuse, or remain silent about violence against women. 

 

Join the movement: 

  • Watch and share the video on ABUHB’s social media channels. 

  • Make the White Ribbon pledge at www.whiteribbon.org.uk. 

  • Speak up if you see or hear something that isn’t right. 

 

Together, we can make Gwent a safer place for everyone. For more information on how men can ‘Speak Up’ go to: White Ribbon Day 2025 — White Ribbon UK 

 

If you are affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence or violence against women, you can contact the confidential VAWDASV Live Fear Free helpline on 0808 80 10 800 (link: Live Fear Free Helpline : Welsh Women's Aid)