Sports stars back anti-domestic abuse campaign

FOOTBALL and rugby players are backing a campaign to tackle domestic abuse over Christmas.

Hearts goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald is among those fronting the anti-domestic abuse campaign. Picture: Ian Georgeson

Hearts, Hibs and the Edinburgh rugby players will wear white ribbons on team strips over the next couple of weeks, including in the Edinburgh derby on January 2, to show support for the campaign.

It will be launched in Edinburgh today with rugby player James Hilterband and the Hearts and Hibs goalkeepers Jamie MacDonald and Ben Williams.

The White Ribbon campaign tries to encourage men to get involved in preventing violence against women.

Police said domestic abuse escalates over the festive period.

Callum Hendry from White Ribbon Scotland welcomed the support of the players.

He said: “The White Ribbon Scotland campaign engages men in Scotland to speak out and take action to prevent the drastic levels of abuse in our society.

“This is an issue for all of us to tackle and through this awareness-raising campaign we hope to see more men playing an active role in challenging the attitudes which perpetuate violence against women.”

Detective Inspector Dougie Moran said: “Police Scotland’s priority is to tackle domestic violence year round. Unfortunately, during the festive period, incidents of domestic abuse are known to increase. We will investigate all reports of domestic abuse and pursue repeat offenders.

“Police Scotland is actively trying to raise awareness of this issue and of organisations which can provide support, advice and assistance.

“The White Ribbon campaign is one of many initiatives we support in an effort to reduce the suffering faced by those unfortunate enough to find themselves in an abusive relationship.”