Carmarthen Domestic Abuse Services (CarmDAS) have teamed up with Carmarthen Town FC and supported by Carmarthenshire County Council to show support for White Ribbon Day, the international campaign to end violence against women and girls.

From White Ribbon Day on the 25th November, until Human Rights Day on 10th December, there are 16 Days of Action, and a chance to highlight 11 traits men and boys can nurture to help create a world of equality and safety for women.

Speaking ahead of White Ribbon Day, CarmDAS Chief Executive Officer, Colleen Bennett said

“We’re pleased to be working with Carmarthen Town football club to raise the awareness of violence against women and girls and the White Ribbon day. This year, White Ribbon day falls on the same week as the start of the FIFA men’s World Cup and the focus of the campaign is around football to ensure #TheGoal of all men joining the team to end violence against women and girls.

We know that violence against women happens across our communities in Carmarthenshire. CarmDAS have been providing independent, specialist support to individuals and families affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence since 1978, and over the last year we’ve seen the largest number of referrals in our 44-year history supporting 462 adults in the community and accommodating 27 women and 23 children in our refuge.

We know that Christmas is a difficult time for many, and CarmDAS is here to help individuals and families in Carmarthen. More information on the support we provide can be found on www.carmdas.org or through calling the Live Fear Free national free helpline on 0808 80 10 800.

If you would like to support our work in Carmarthen and the surrounding areas, you can donate to our Christmas appeal through our website too.“

Speaking on behalf of Carmarthen Town Football club, Communities Manager, Paul Ashley-Jones added:

“We are proud of our partnership with CarmDAS and understand the importance of showing that we as a club support the White Ribbon campaign, and urging our supporters to stand together to end violence against women and girls.

In order to end violence against women, its vital that men are part of the discussion and the club is showing our support by pledging never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women and girls and urging our supporters to do the same.”