At Buckinghamshire Council we’re committed to ending violence against women and girls, as well as domestic abuse. While men and boys can also be victims, domestic abuse mainly affects women and girls. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men in England will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
As an individual or business in the licensed trade, you can play a key role in supporting these efforts by creating a safer and more respectful environment.
The council, as an accredited White Ribbon organisation, is dedicated to creating a safe environment for all residents, raising awareness, and providing support. The White Ribbon symbol represents the fight to end violence against women and girls.
Taxi and Private Hire tips
The taxi and private hire trade is important for so many in Buckinghamshire. As drivers and operators, you can help the White Ribbon campaign and make our community safer, especially for women and girls. Here’s how you can help:
- Remember, abuse is never acceptable. Types of abuse include verbal, physical, emotional and others. Learn about domestic violence and its effects.
- Complete the required training on domestic abuse as part of your safeguarding and equality training. This will help you spot and respond to abuse. For more information email [email protected]
- Encourage passengers to learn about the White Ribbon campaign, particularly around White Ribbon Day on 25 November, and stand against abuse and violence against women and girls.
- Train to become a White Ribbon ambassador or champion, and talk about the White Ribbon campaign with your colleagues and encourage them to train too.
- Know how to report abuse and encourage those experiencing abuse to report it and seek help.
Licensed premises
Licensed premises, like bars, entertainment venues, and gambling facilities are key parts of our community. To keep these places safe and welcoming, it's important to prevent harassment and abuse. Here’s how you can help with the White Ribbon campaign:
- Make sure all staff know that abuse of any kind (examples include verbal, physical, emotional and financial) is never OK. Train them to recognize and address domestic violence and other abuse. More information on the Bucks Domestic Abuse Partnership website.
- Encourage staff to train to become White Ribbon ambassadors and champions. Display the White Ribbon symbol in your premises.
- Promote the White Ribbon campaign through newsletters, social media, and in-house displays, particularly around White Ribbon Day on 25 November each year. Inform your customers about the importance of ending violence against women and girls.
- Support abuse victims by providing information on how to get help and report incidents. Train your staff to handle these situations with care.
By supporting the White Ribbon campaign, you can help create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone who visits your venue. Feel free to email [email protected] for help and more information.
Support and Resources for Victims
- Domestic Abuse Red Flags: Visit our web page for information on recognizing domestic abuse, support services, and reporting incidents.
- Report to the Police: Encourage victims to report abuse to the police for immediate help and safety.
- Support Organisations: Contact local and national organisations for counselling, legal advice, and safe accommodation.
- White Ribbon Campaign: Take the White Ribbon promise to oppose violence against women and girls, join campaign activities to raise awareness and promote change, and train to become an ambassador or champion.
- Printed posters and other assets: email [email protected] if you’d like posters such as ‘Ask for Angela’ or cards with information on where to get help.