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With 70% of UK women experiencing sexual harassment in public, Suffolk Police is calling on members of the public to challenge unacceptable and outdated attitudes and behaviours.
Why it matters: Sexual harassment and abuse remain pervasive issues across the UK, with three in five women experiencing harassment, bullying or verbal abuse in the workplace. In schools, nearly a quarter of girls in mixed-sex settings report unwanted sexual touching.
The big picture: Suffolk Constabulary has released a video to mark White Ribbon Day on Monday 25 November, launching 16 days of action to raise awareness of violence, abuse and harassment that disproportionately affects women and girls.
What they're saying: "The White Ribbon campaign serves as a reminder to us all to challenge toxic, misogynistic behaviours and attitudes against women and girls," says Superintendent Jasvinder Kaur. "As a society we all need to take responsibility to effect long-term change."
How it works: The police are taking several approaches:
Launching a new digital service offering remote video calls for domestic abuse victims
Working with partners including local councils, charities, retailers, and venues
Running the Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Unit programme to address offender behaviour
Promoting the "Ask for Angela" scheme in pubs and clubs
Raising awareness of Clare's Law, which allows people to check partners' violent history
Between the lines: Suffolk's Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore emphasises that council tax funding has enabled investment in rapid video response systems, making it easier for victims to report abuse.
"No one should have to live with the fear of violence or controlling behaviour," says Passmore.
Support available: The police are highlighting several resources:
The Sexual Abuse Referral Centre offering specialist support
The Hollie Guard personal safety app
Independent Domestic Violence Advisor service
Local organisations including Lighthouse Women's Aid and Brave Futures
The bottom line: While Suffolk Police leads enforcement efforts, they emphasise that lasting change requires everyone in the community to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours.
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