Swindon Town has made a bold statement against domestic violence by supporting, and officially launching White Ribbon Day.

The national initiative is part of sixteen days of action with a number of local organisations partnering up to raise awareness during the World Cup – a time when there is often an increase in domestic abuse cases.

The football club’s Chief Executive, Rob Angus, joined colleagues at the Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service recently to officially cut the ‘white ribbon’ at their main office in the town and make a powerful pledge on behalf of everyone at SN1 that violence towards women will never be tolerated.

The club has joined the likes of Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Police and several local charities to highlight what abuse can look like in a relationship along with how to get help.

Chief Executive, Rob Angus, said: “We are proud to be supporting the White Ribbon campaign and the great work the domestic abuse services provides.  

“Sadly, domestic abuse happens far too often and takes many forms. As a football club at the heart of our community we are keen to raise awareness and signpost people to the services that will give them the support they need.”

This year’s theme for their ‘sixteen days of action’ is focused on improving the understanding of financial and economic abuse by sharing key messages and promoting access to support.

The Office of Police, Crime Commissioner and charities Fearless (previously known as Splitz), Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service and The Nelson Trust are onboard, along with hospitals across Swindon and Salisbury.

Financial abuse is a legally recognised form of domestic abuse and often occurs in the context of intimate partner violence.

It involves the control of a partner or ex-partner's money, finances and things that money can buy, such as clothing, transport, food and a place to live.

Councillor Cathy Martyn, Swindon Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Health Inequalities and Housing, said: "Domestic abuse can happen to anyone at any time.

“It takes many forms, including financial or economic abuse, it's controlling and done to restrict someone's freedom.

“If you or someone you know wants or needs to talk, to get advice or support, please reach out to one of the services available across Swindon and Wiltshire - they are there to help."

People who are experiencing domestic abuse can contact:

Wiltshire:

Weekdays call Fearless 01225 775276

Out of hours helpline 01225 712880.

Swindon:

Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service 24 Hour Helpline 01793 610610.

In an emergency dial 999.