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NALC attends the White Ribbon #ChangeTheStory webinar
The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) attended the latest White Ribbon UK webinar as part of its #ChangeTheStory series for White Ribbon Accredited Organisations.
White Ribbon UK chief executive Anthea Sully hosted the webinar on 14 May 2024, which featured Jess Phillips MP, Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley.
Jess Phillips MP shared her journey into political activism, stating that her upbringing profoundly influenced it. Her connection to her activism has driven her to advocate tirelessly for vulnerable communities, particularly women and children fleeing domestic violence and seeking asylum.
She shared her proudest achievement of successfully lobbying for the inclusion of mandatory women's refuges in the 2015 Labour manifesto. This advocacy led to a landmark law requiring all tier-one unitary authorities to provide refuge accommodation for women, ensuring that these essential services are protected from budget cuts.
Jess Phillips MP advised organisations looking to make changes. She stressed that making these issues a demonstrable priority is crucial, urging that actions go beyond mere public relations gestures. She stated, "It is essential that organisations have concrete policies in place, such as a comprehensive domestic abuse policy", and stressed the significance of the community-led change, "I come from an environment where something comes from the ground and makes a real difference".
Jess Phillips MP spoke on men's critical role as allies in these efforts. She emphasises that being an ally means more than just expressing support. It requires active engagement and one's influence to enact change. She pleaded that being an ally means genuinely considering women's experiences and acting when possible. She explained that it's not about doing it for recognition or props but using your power to make a change. And that men must be vigilant and responsive to the signs of abuse and take steps to address them.