Winsford Town Council has committed to joining a scheme which aims to eradicate gender-based violence.

Members voted on Wednesday, September 21, on whether the council should apply for White Ribbon accredited status.

White Ribbon is the UK’s leading charity engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls.

Town mayor Joanne Moorcroft: “I, for one, think that anything which stops someone being in fear of domestic violence is important. I think we should do it.”

The motion on the council’s agenda stated: “Violence against women, whether it occurs directly within or outside an organisation, is a serious prevalent and preventable issue.

“Regardless of size, all organisations can be White Ribbon accredited and can make a real difference through their staff, their policies, and their day-to-day work; as well as their role within the communities in which they are based.”

White Ribbon accreditation is only awarded to organisations which have taken steps to eradicate gender-based violence in their locality.

It also indicates a willingness to develop a positive culture where men are allies and women feel empowered towards their greatest potential.

In the discussion leading up to the vote, Cllr Malcolm Gaskell asked members to consider postponing the application.

Though fully behind the proposal, he suggested implementing the new policies might be better done after the next council election in May 2023.

Cllr Gaskill reminded the council accreditation means the appointment of senior council office holders as White Ribbon ambassadors.

If anyone appointed were to lose their seat at the election next May, he said, the accreditation process would be set back.

While members acknowledged his concern, the consensus was to proceed with the application without delay.

Cllr Stuart Bingham said: “Procrastinating may be good bureaucracy, but it doesn’t actually do anything.

“I felt safer walking the streets of Afghanistan and Bosnia than some women do walking around here.

“Starting now would show the right spirit.”

As a White Ribbon accredited organisation, the town council would need to demonstrate an ongoing and sustained commitment to preventing male violence against women.

White Ribbon accreditation would cost the council £300 annually.