At Napo, we believe that ending violence against women and girls (VAWG) is one of the most important challenges of our time. It’s not just about addressing individual acts of violence but tackling the attitudes and behaviours that make violence and abuse a daily reality for so many women.
As a trade union, we see the impact of harassment, abuse, and inequality in workplaces and communities, and we are determined to play our part in driving change.
Building on the momentum of White Ribbon Day on 25th November, we’re committing to raising awareness and acting throughout the year. White Ribbon Day, focuses our attention on VAWG and challenges men to pledge to never commit, condone, or stay silent about violence against women.
The day also serves to foster discussions about the root cause of such violence, challenge harmful gender stereotypes and promote healthier and more respectful relationships. Ultimately, White Ribbon Day plays a crucial role in supporting the global movement for gender equality and advocating for safer more equitable societies. Together we must address the attitudes and behaviours that underpin and drive actions that contribute to a fear of violence for women in their day to day lives.
But tackling VAWG requires year-round effort, and at Napo, we are determined to keep the conversation going.
Our Plan for Action
Over the coming months, we’ll be:
- Raising Awareness: Through articles and news stories, we’ll explore the many forms of violence and abuse faced by women and girls and highlight what can be done to address them.
- Providing Professional Support: We’ll host sessions to help members understand how to identify and challenge harmful behaviours in workplaces and support those affected by abuse.
- Driving Change: This focus will culminate at our next AGM, where the theme will be Next Steps in Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.
Our aim is to move beyond raising awareness to ensuring meaningful change—whether that’s through workplace policies, education, or simply encouraging more people to stand up and take action.
Why It Matters
The scale of VAWG is devastating:
- 70% of women and girls over 15 report experiencing sexual harassment in public.
- 3 in 5 women have been harassed, bullied, or verbally abused at work.
- 15% of women over 15 in England and 17% in Wales have faced online violence.
- 24% of girls under 16 in mixed-sex schools have experienced unwanted sexual touching.
- 1.4 million women over 15 were victims of domestic abuse in the year ending 2023.
- And 63% of men say society isn’t doing enough to ensure women and girls feel safe.
These numbers reflect the fear and harm many women face daily. As a union that stands for equality, safety, and justice, we cannot ignore these realities.
Join Us in Taking Action
We want to hear from you. Share your ideas, suggestions, or experiences to help shape our work. Tackling VAWG requires everyone to step up, and together, we can make a difference.
Let’s make it clear: violence and abuse against anyone will not be tolerated. With commitment and action, we can create a society where women and girls no longer have to live in fear.
For more information and resources, visit www.whiteribbon.org.uk.
