People and communities
Council appoints White Ribbon Champion as it takes next step towards accreditation
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Councillor Nicky Barker, Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, has been appointed as the council’s first White Ribbon Champion, as the authority strengthens its commitment to ending violence against women and girls and takes the next step towards White Ribbon accreditation.
The appointment was approved by Full Council on Monday 27 July 2026.
“ Violence against women and girls, in all its forms, has no place in Walsall, and we all have a role to play in challenging the attitudes and behaviours that allow it to happen.
“I am proud to take on the role of White Ribbon Champion and to support the council’s work towards accreditation. This is about showing clear leadership, actively supporting the aims of the White Ribbon campaign, and demonstrating the council’s commitment to preventing harassment, abuse and violence against women and girls.
“Through this work, we want to raise awareness, support positive culture change and encourage people, particularly men and boys, to challenge the attitudes that contribute to violence against women and girls. By working with partners, staff, councillors and communities, we can help create a borough where everyone feels safer, respected and supported. “
“ Seeking White Ribbon accreditation is an important step in Walsall Council’s commitment to preventing harm experienced by women and girls, and supporting safer communities.
“Accreditation will provide a clear framework for action and help us build on existing work through the Safer Walsall Partnership, including prevention activity, work with schools and young people, safer night-time economy initiatives, communications linked to White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Action, and support for victims and survivors. “
White Ribbon UK is the leading charity in England and Wales working to prevent men’s violence against women and girls. Violence can take many forms, including domestic abuse, rape and sexual offences, stalking and harassment, so-called honour-based abuse, online abuse, spiking, exploitation and harassment in public, workplace and community settings. The charity’s approach is preventative and focused on changing the harmful attitudes, behaviours and systems that contribute to gender inequality and gender-based violence.
Notes to editors
- This council meeting on Monday 27 July 2026 is available to view online via the Walsall Council webcasts
- White Ribbon accreditation provides organisations with a structured approach to positive culture change. As part of the accreditation process, the council will work with White Ribbon UK to develop and implement a three-year action plan.
- The White Ribbon Champion will help promote the White Ribbon message across the borough, support the council’s accreditation journey, encourage councillor and community engagement, champion the importance of men and boys as allies, encourage the recruitment of ambassadors and champions, and provide visible support for activity linked to White Ribbon Day, the 16 Days of Action, and wider prevention work.
- White Ribbon Day takes place annually on 25 November and marks the start of the 16 Days of Action against gender-based violence. For further information, please visit the White Ribbon website
