SOUTH Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) have been awarded the ‘White Ribbon’ accreditation from the White Ribbon campaign.

They are the first Fire and Rescue Service in the UK to receive the accreditation which highlights the Service’s commitment to reducing and preventing domestic abuse in the South Wales area.

SWFRS works closely with the community to raise awareness of arson used as a weapon in relation to domestic abuse, especially in recent years where fire has resulted in loss of life or life changing injuries.

The White Ribbon campaign is driven by men, for men, with the aim of encouraging men of all ages to pledge their commitment to a worldwide movement to stop domestic abuse against women.

SWFRS will be asking its male staff to sign up to this pledge and work with the Community Safety and Partnerships teams to engage with communities across the Service’s area.

The UN officially recognised November 25 as International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women, with the White Ribbon seen as a symbol of hope for a world free from the fear of abuse.

For more information about the campaign visit www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk.