The leaders of the three main political parties have all signed the Women’s Aid ‘Real Man’ pledge to mark the International Day Against Violence Against Women.
Women's Aid is running a national campaign asking both men and women to help send out the message that 'Real Men' do not abuse and control women – physically, emotionally, sexually or financially.
Chief Executive of Women’s Aid, Nicola Harwin CBE, said:
“We are thrilled that the Prime Minister David Cameron, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Leader of the Labour Party Ed Miliband have all signed the ‘Real Man’ pledge, and showed their commitment to ending violence against women and children. Men have an important role to play in ending violence against women and the ‘Real Man’ campaign shows how powerful it is to have positive male role models to show the importance of respect in relationships.
As well as educating young people about healthy relationships to reduce domestic and sexual violence in the future, we also want to ensure that there will be specialist support services available for those who desperately need them. Two women are currently killed by their partner or ex-partner every week in England and Wales, which is why it is vital that we all work together to reduce violence against women so that we can save lives and create a safer future.”