GREAT Western Railway is marking White Ribbon Day on Friday, November 25, with a new train livery.
The new livery was unveiled at Paddington Station to commemorate the company’s White Ribbon UK accreditation.
It is the leading charity combating male violence against women and girls, and has begun a three-year partnership with rail operators GWR.
Representatives from White Ribbon UK, local government, and the rail industry came together to celebrate the partnership with the unveiling of the new-look train.
GWR members who act as White Ribbon ambassadors, male staff who commit to sharing the charity’s message, also attended.
The Intercity Express Train 800016 was selected to bear the White Ribbon emblem as it travels across the GWR network, spreading the message of their commitment to supporting the education of men and boys against gender-based violence.
The event also coincided with the start of the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
GWR Head of On Board, David Crome, who led the ceremony, said: “Our partnership with White Ribbon UK is one of our most significant to date.
“As a business that is male-dominated we are in a strong position to showcase the hard work that White Ribbon do among our colleagues who identify as male.
“As a transport company, we are committed to safeguarding the women and girls who both travel and work with us.
“Our White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions are perfect examples of how dedicated our colleagues are to preventing violence against women and keeping the rail industry safe for everyone.”
White Ribbon UK Chief Executive Anthea Sully said: “We are thrilled that GWR are showing the importance of raising awareness of ending men’s violence against women with their White Ribbon train.
“The White Ribbon is the global symbol of changing harmful cultures that prevent women living the lives they want to lead.
“As the train travels the country it will inspire curiosity about White Ribbon and raise essential awareness about what steps we can all take to achieve #TheGoal of ending violence once and for all.”.
