Depute Provost is White Ribbon Champion
Depute Provost Councillor Connor McManus has been appointed Midlothian Council’s White Ribbon Champion.
Tackling violence against women
The White Ribbon campaign is a Scotland-wide initiative to encourage men to end violence against women.
An honour
Cllr McManus, who is also the council’s Equalities champion, said: “I’m honoured to champion this cause, which also aligns with my existing Equalities role.
Working together
“I’m looking forward to working with council staff and partner agencies including Police Scotland.
Domestic abuse
“Police attended around 1000 reported incidents of domestic abuse in Midlothian last year.
Don't ignore the problem
“The vast majority of reported incidents are perpetrated by men. However, while most men in Scotland are not violent towards women, many ignore the problem, or see it as something that has nothing to do with them.
Take the pledge
“That’s why as Midlothian Council’s White Ribbon Champion I am inviting everyone locally to take a simple first step to make a pledge:
Don't stay silent
“I pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about men’s violence against women.
Sign it now
“I’ve signed the pledge and I hope many other men will join me.”
16 Days of Action
As part of a local response to mark 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence, which begins on 25 November, the East Lothian and Midlothian Public Protection Committee is supporting the White Ribbon Scotland campaign.