West Ham Becomes First Premier League Club To Achieve White Ribbon Accreditation.

West Ham United has become the first Premier League club to achieve White Ribbon accreditation, marking a significant milestone in the campaign to end men’s violence against women and girls. This achievement follows dedicated efforts by local advocates and councillors who have worked tirelessly to encourage organisations to take a stand against gender-based violence.

Sue Watson and Harriet Spoor, residents of Rainham and Dagenham respectively, co-chair the Dagenham and Rainham White Ribbon campaign in their role as White Ribbon Champions, and were keen to have the club they support, engage with the aims of this campaign.

Sue Watson, prospective candidate for Rainham and Wennington ward, and Women’s Officer for Dagenham and Rainham Labour Party, praised the club’s commitment:

“This accreditation is more than a badge, it’s a promise to challenge harmful behaviours and create safer spaces for women and girls. We approached West Ham because we knew their influence could spark real change, and today’s announcement proves that collaboration works. Harriet and myself as Season Ticket holders want the Club to be a place where everyone feels welcome, seen, and heard.”

Cllr Harriet Spoor, Deputy Chair of Barking and Dagenham Council’s Assembly, added:

“Football clubs have a unique platform to shape attitudes. By becoming White Ribbon accredited, West Ham United is sending a powerful message: ending violence against women is everyone’s responsibility. I’m proud to have played a part in encouraging this step and look forward to seeing the ripple effect across sport and society.”

The accreditation requires organisations to meet rigorous standards, including leadership commitment, staff training, and community engagement. West Ham’s pledge builds on its existing equality and safeguarding work, including signing the Women’s Night Safety Charter and delivering awareness training to players and staff.

White Ribbon UK CEO Lynne Elliot welcomed the move, stating:

“It’s brilliant to see a Premier League club achieve White Ribbon Accreditation. By taking this step, West Ham United are demonstrating a clear commitment to preventing violence against women and girls by engaging men and boys.”

White Ribbon is the UK’s leading charity engaging with men and boys to prevent violence against women and girls. Their mission is to prevent violence against women and girls by addressing the root causes. They do this by raising awareness of what constitutes violence, and the link between harmful masculine norms, gender inequality and violence against women.

 ‘We Speak Up’ is this year’s White Ribbon Day campaign theme, highlighting that letting sexism slide puts women and girls at risk. Sexist jokes, catcalling, staring and comments might seem harmless, but they are serious because they can lead to violence and abuse.

For more information on White Ribbon and how to make the pledge, visit www.whiteribbon.org.uk.

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