Man up with White Ribbon

TENTERFIELD Family Youth Support Workers will be distributing white ribbons to prominent men in their community and asking them to show their support by wearing the ribbon.
Next Monday, 25 November, is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
It is marked by White Ribbon Day which works to raise community awareness and end the attitudes and behaviours which lead to violence against women.
Tenterfield Hub will be dressed up for the occasion, as always, to provide an information and referral point.
The Men’s Shed in the town will be hosting a White Ribbon barbecue on Tuesday, 26 November from 10am.
Men’s Shed secretary Ian Docherty said the blokes were keen to do something and it will be a good opportunity for others to come and see what goes on at the shed.
The Men’s Shed is a congenial place for men to talk about personal issues and share experiences while doing some hands-on tinkering.
“The White Ribbon challenge for our community is to change violent culture and learn positive new behaviours,” Tenterfield Youth and Family Support Services co-ordinator Jenny Melmeth said.
“Sometimes men are not aware that some behaviours can have devastating impacts on families and this flow on is detrimental to the community as a whole,” she said.
“If you are aware of somebody suffering violence there is assistance and help available and we urge you to ask for it.
“We urge all members of the community to not excuse or remain silent about violence against women.”
Assistance is available through local medical services, the Family Support Service and via the Community Hub at 204 Rouse St. (02) 6736 4443.