'It’s not banter if we’re not laughing': How men can help fight violence against women on White Ribbon Day

Men need to be more involved in the fight to stop violence against women and girls.

That's the message of campaigners and victims speaking out to mark a day of action aimed at putting an end to gender-based violence. White Ribbon is a charity that aims to prevent violence against women and girls by addressing its root causes, and working with men and boys to change attitudes and behaviours.

And today on the UK's White Ribbon Day, those at the forefront of the quest to end misogyny and abuse have told how important it is that men work with women to put a stop to it. Northumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Kim McGuinness, said sexist comments and behaviours contribute to a culture that makes some men believe they can commit violent crimes against women.

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“Seventy-one per cent of women have experienced sexual harassment. It doesn’t have to be this way and I want to stop it being this way," she said. "Sexism, misogyny and unwanted comments that degrade women and girls, they can be the starting point and can grow into very harmful, abusive, criminal behaviours.

"It’s not banter if we’re not laughing. When we let these things pass, we create a culture in which others feel able to take it further." During her time in office the PCC has runs a number of campaigns and initiatives aimed at highlighting this issue, and helping communities tackle it.

"Locally, through my office we have invested millions in a raft of work to try and drive real, lasting change," she explained. "From Active Bystander Training that helps you know what to do if you see someone being harassed to our #ItAllAddsUp campaign that shines a light on the real experiences of real women in our region.

"It’s there to engage with men – asking them to reflect on their behaviour and ask if they’re part of the problem. If they are, it’s time for change and I will keep fighting for that.”

Another woman at the forefront of fighting for change is Laura Currer from Gosforth in Newcastle. The 30-year-old was drugged and raped by two men after a night out in Newcastle more than eight years ago, but her attackers have never been charged.

Following her ordeal Laura set up Sparkle with Laura Currer, which aims to help rape survivors rebuild their lives and offers training, lived experience expertise, and consultancy for businesses. Laura, who has waived her right to anonymity, says she has seen a shift in attitudes since she was attacked.

But she believes that unless men are put at the centre of conversations about violence against women and girls, society will only ever treat the symptoms and not the causes of this devastating problem.

"The conversation has shifted and consequently there's an understanding that these conversations can't just happen in all female spaces," said Laura. "It's absolutely crucial that we have men and boys involved in these conversations.

"I really support White Ribbon Day. We are making great steps forward but there's still a long way to go. Events like White Ribbon Day are absolutely pivotal in this."