MEN are being urged to help end violence against women and girls as part of this year’s worldwide White Ribbon campaign.

The campaign asks everyone, but especially men, to take a personal pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about male violence against women.

The call comes from the Brighton and Hove Community Safety Partnership, Safe in the City.

It comes in the run-up to the international White Ribbon campaign’s 16 Days of Action, starting tomorrow.

The campaign is a global movement of men and boys working to end male violence against women and girls by raising awareness and understanding of domestic and sexual abuse.

A commitment by the council to put an end to domestic and sexual abuse has earned Brighton and Hove White Ribbon City status for the third time.

Councillor Emma Daniel said: “It’s extremely important that men take a lead in ensuring women and girls are protected from violence and abuse in all its forms.

“We are calling on everyone, but especially men, to take the pledge and help put an end to the threats, intimidation and violence woman and girls face both at home and outside the home, often on a daily basis.”

In Brighton and Hove, a range of agencies, groups and individuals are running events to raise awareness, make sure people know where to go for help and support, and share stories about people’s experiences, recovery and work.

In the city, domestic violence, abuse and sexual violence are priorities for the Safe in the City partnership.

The partnership has a particular focus on increasing social intolerance and reducing acceptance of violence and abuse so that people are able to have safe, equal and violence free relationships.

While the 16 days are focused on violence against women, there is also a recognition that heterosexual men, as well as people in same sex relationships, can also be affected by violence and abuse.

Further information can be found at safeinthecity.info/16-days-of-action.