Exeter City Football Club is backing the 16 Days of Action Campaign, a global initiative aimed at ending gender-based violence.

Taking place annually between the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) and World Human Rights Day (10 December), this campaign unites individuals, organisations, and communities worldwide to advocate for the prevention of violence against women and girls.

As part of the campaign, the club will host activities aligned with the White Ribbon Campaign, an internationally recognised movement dedicated to addressing the root causes of violence against women. The White Ribbon Campaign specifically focuses on challenging harmful gender norms, promoting positive masculinity, and fostering allyship among men to end violence before it starts.

At the Wycombe Wanderers match on Tuesday, December 3, ECFC will host organisations working in this arena to share their knowledge and advise how supporters can become involved. 

Staff will be available in the Fan Zone so visitors can:

• Access information and resources on the White Ribbon campaign.
• Learn how to sign the White Ribbon pledge to stand against violence.
• Show their support by engaging with representatives from organisations dedicated to combating gender-based violence.

A short video will be shown at half time highlighting the challenges of addressing domestic abuse in Devon. Additional information will also be included in the matchday programme.

Nick Hawker, chair of the club and Exeter City Supporters’ Trust, said: “At Exeter City Football Club, we believe that football has the power to inspire change. By supporting the 16 Days of Action campaign, we’re taking a stand to challenge gender-based violence. As a community-owned club, it’s our responsibility to raise awareness and foster conversations that lead to safer, more inclusive environments for everyone. Campaigns like this allow us to harness the influence of football to drive positive societal change, and we’re proud to play a role in this vital initiative. Let’s work together to make our community a safer, more supportive place for everyone.”

The activity at St James Park is part of a packed agenda of activity across Devon, designed to raise awareness, educate the public, and provide support. These events are open to both community members and professionals. More details can be found on the Safer Devon website.

• In Devon last year, FearFree (the commissioned domestic abuse support service) received 6,000 referrals, with 39% of cases involving repeat referrals.
• Referrals for support have doubled since pre-covid levels.
• Nationally, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
• 1 in 6 children witness domestic abuse at home.

For those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence, help is available:

• Devon Safeguarding Adults Partnership website
• FearFree: FearFree Website
• Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services: Call 01392 204174 or email support@devonrapecrisis.org.uk.

For national support, contact the 24-hour Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.

For more details on the 16 Days of Action campaign or to get involved, visit:
Safer Devon - 16 days.