Men step up to challenge violence against women

Running from 25 November to 10 December, Islington Council’s campaign focuses on male allyship by giving men practical ways to learn, speak up and support change.  

It aims to shift the conversation from “Why didn’t she leave?” to “Why didn’t he stop?”, placing responsibility where it belongs and building a culture of accountability and respect.  

Local leaders and community figures are being asked to make public pledges to be part of the solution. Men across the borough are encouraged to make one or more of the following pledges:  

• Learn through training – understand the root causes of abuse and how to challenge harmful behaviour.  

• Understand abuse – recognise the different forms it can take, from coercive control to online abuse.  

• Encourage others – speak up and support other men to take action.  

So far, the campaign has received support from the local police service, fire brigade and other community organisations, as well as councillors and senior leaders from the council. 

Men can make their pledge on the council’s website. Those who pledge will receive practical tools and links to training to help them become active allies. 

Councillor Angelo Weekes, Executive Member for Community Safety, said: “We all have a role to play in ending violence against women and girls.  

“This campaign is about giving men the confidence and tools to speak up, support survivors and challenge harmful behaviour.  

“It is just one part of the council’s wider commitment to tackling abuse - from holding daily safeguarding meetings, to training more than 3,000 people, and delivering specialist support services for both survivors and perpetrators. 

“Violence against women and girls affects every community. Silence allows harm to continue; visible allyship and respectful intervention can help bring it to an end.” 

Join the movement: Visit our website to make your pledge and be part of the change.