Waltham Forest has been awarded white ribbon status for continued efforts to stop abuse of women and girls.

The CEO of White Ribbon Campaign UK, Chris Green, visited the borough this month.

Accreditation formally recognises the work carried out by the council, police and partners including Leyton Orient FC.

Cllr Liaquat Ali, the council’s cabinet member for community safety, said: “We want to send a clear message that violence and abuse – whatever form it takes – cannot be condoned.

“We’re proud to support the White Ribbon campaign and hope that the activities and events we have planned in the weeks ahead will encourage local people to show their support and help bring an end to gender-based violence.”

Work will be done at Waltham Forest College and across the borough to raise awareness about the campaign.

Soon, a white ribbon symbol will feature on the sides of all of the London Fire Brigade’s engines in the borough.

On December 13, Leyton Orient FC’s first team players will wear White Ribbon t-shirts prior to their home game against Peterborough.

The White Ribbon campaign was originally set up by a group of men in Canada in 1991, and the council has set up its own anti-Violence Against Women and Girls pledge.

Domestic violence reports have risen significantly in the last 12 months.

The Met Police believe this is because more women are reporting crimes thanks to charity campaigns.

To learn about the work of the Council’s community safety team visit www.walthamforest.gov.uk/community-safety.