World Cup sees RBC show further support for White Ribbon - helping to end violence against women and girls
Last updated: 10/6/2026
As the football World Cup begins on Thursday (June 11) Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) is continuing to support the White Ribbon international campaign dedicated to ending violence against women and girls.
White Ribbon UK is the leading charity engaging men and boys in this and campaigners are aware higher profile sporting events can see an increase in cases of sexism, harassment or violence.
The World Cup is a time when people come together to watch the game and celebrate. But not everyone experiences football in the same way. Whether you're watching the game in a pub, a bar, or at home, everyone should be able to enjoy the game safely and comfortably. Comments, jokes or ‘banter’ can cross a line and affect whether people feel safe, welcome and respected.
Evidence shows that domestic abuse can increase during major football tournaments, particularly around England matches, which is why raising awareness and promoting safe, respectful environments during the World Cup is so important.
RBC is proud to be White Ribbon Accredited, committed to working towards eliminating these attitudes and behaviours that can lead to violence against women and girls.
Anyone can join a White Ribbon UK free practical webinar, Watching the Game, Playing Your Part, exploring everyday situations and simple ways to speak up safely, support others and help everyone enjoy the game, wherever you're watching.
As a White Ribbon Accredited organisation, RBC is delivering a comprehensive multi-year plan to support positive action across the organisation and the wider community.
This includes supplying local pubs with posters they can display in their premises to play their part and support the campaign.
RBC’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment & Safety Cllr Rob Inglis said: “We’re proud to support the White Ribbon campaign throughout this World Cup and all year.
“It focuses on learning how to identify and root out harmful attitudes and behaviours that contribute to gender-based violence and we know high profile sports tournaments can lead to an increase in behaviours no one wants to see.
“Our Councillors and officers have received training to highlight their role in raising awareness, supporting victims of domestic abuse and signposting to the support available.
“We have measures in place and have a very active role in multi-agency partnerships including Nottinghamshire Police, The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire, Domestic Abuse Partnership Board and local services such as J9 that support victims of abuse.
“We are proud to work in partnership to help eliminate abuse in all its forms.”
Further information can be found at www.whiteribbon.org.uk
There’s also a range of support available for victims of domestic or sexual abuse:
There is help and advice available for anyone (woman or man or child) who has experienced domestic or sexual abuse.
JUNO Women's Aid for women and children - 24h Free Helpline 0808 800 0340 - www.junowomensaid.org.uk
Equation domestic Abuse for Men - 0115 960 5556 - www.equation.org.uk
Galop National LGBT + Domestic Abuse – 0800 999 5428 - www.galop.org.uk
Childline for children or young people up to the age of 19 – 0800 11 11
In an emergency call the Police on 999 - www.childline.org.uk=
24 hour Domestic Abuse Freephone helpline: 0808 800 0340 (a central number for advice and access to local domestic abuse services)
Men's Advice Line: 0808 801 0327
Rape Crisis: 0115 941 0440
ISAS (Incest and Sexual Abuse Survivors): 01636 610 313