Ministry of Defence Police Takes a Stand Against Violence on Women and Girls
MDP Joins Fight as White Ribbon Accredited Force
The Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) has officially joined the battle to end violence against women and girls by becoming a White Ribbon Accredited organisation. This puts the MDP alongside 18 other UK police forces committed to the national Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) policing strategy.
White Ribbon: Leading the Charge for Change
White Ribbon is the UK’s top charity tackling violence against women and girls by engaging men and boys to change harmful attitudes and behaviours rooted in outdated masculinity and gender inequality. Their mission: stop violence before it happens.
With White Ribbon Accreditation, the MDP pledges to improve workplace culture, promote gender equality, and clamp down on misogynistic behaviour across its ranks.
Strong Words from MDP Leadership
Chief Inspector McGlinchey, White Ribbon Lead, said:
“White Ribbon is a global campaign urging men and boys to take a stand against abuse and violence. It’s shocking to think we might be working alongside potential perpetrators.
We want every one of our staff to know misogyny and abuse will not be tolerated. It’s safe and expected to call it out and report it.
I wear my White Ribbon as a personal pledge to never excuse or stay silent about violence against women and girls – and I’m encouraging all our staff to do the same.
By proudly sporting these ribbons, we want to send a clear message: recognise, stop, and make this Force a safe place for all.”
New Ambassadors and Champions Lead the Way
The MDP has appointed White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions to promote respect, equality, and zero tolerance of sexist behaviour.
Temporary Chief Constable Melanie Dales said:
“I’m thrilled the MDP has achieved White Ribbon Accreditation. Thanks to Chief Inspector McGlinchey and his team for their hard work.
At a critical time for policing, I am committed to ridding our Force of misogynistic and abusive behaviour.
We want all staff to feel safe and respected at work. We’re cracking down on predators and enhancing policies by launching our own Anti-Corruption Unit and a Police Integrity Line via Crime Stoppers for anonymous reports.
White Ribbon UK Welcomes the MDP
Anthea Sully, Chief Executive of White Ribbon UK, commented:
“White Ribbon Accredited organisations drive real change by fostering respect and equality at work and beyond.
Awareness helps employees become allies, calling out abuse whenever and wherever it happens.
We’re proud to welcome the Ministry of Defence Police to our family and look forward to ending violence against women and girls together.”
