November 25th marks the International Elimination of Violence Against Women Day and Mary Macleod MP, together with the Home Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities, the Rt Hon Theresa May MP and other MPs met with the White Ribbon Campaign UK to raise awareness of this issue.

The White Ribbon Campaign UK is a worldwide campaign led by men that seeks to involve more men on issues of gender equality. They are keen to support the formation of a network of male MPs dedicated to combating violence against women within the All Party Parliamentary Group on Domestic Violence.

Mary said: “MPs enter Parliament to make their community a better place and working to eliminate violence against women is an important way they can do this.  It is vital that men are also involved to ensure that real change happens.

“Domestic violence is still a major issue in our society, with estimates of over one million victims of domestic abuse each year. Recently, I spoke at the annual conference for Refuge, which provides advice and safe houses for women who are the victims of domestic violence. The world’s first Refuge safe house opened in Chiswick, back in 1971 and I am proud to support the excellent work they do.

“Last week I met with Hounslow Borough Commander David Bilson and his Senior Management Team who confirmed that domestic violence is a top policing priority within the Borough. They are working hard in the community to try and prevent domestic violence and encourage those affected to come forward and report any instances of domestic violence.”