Ayrshire pupils praised for informative cup participation

Pupils from 22 Ayrshire schools joined together for a football tournament while learning about gender-based violence last week, with hopes they can “spread the word” of this ongoing issue.

The White Ribbon Cup took place at Cumnock’s Townhead Park, in partnership with Police Scotland, The Killie Community, and Ayrshire’s Violence Against Women, on Wednesday June 10 for a day of advice and guidance for youngsters.

The organisations set up a range of information stalls to help engage and educate those at  the event on such a big issue and hope they can go on to “make a huge difference.”

Councillor Jim McMahon was in attendance at the East Ayrshire tournament, and believes it was an all-round success in getting word out to a younger generation.

He said: The White Ribbon Cup was a brilliant day and a really good way of engaging so many young men around the issue of violence against women. Everyone who was there on the day was able to learn more about the prevention work that is going on in this area and how they can play a part in this.

“I hope all the players had a great day and that they’ll now go on to spread the word about others can help in our aim of ending violence against women.”

Sergeant Kenneth Blackmore, of Police Scotland, aligns with McMahon’s assessment of a “fantastic” day for combining learning and sporting ability.

Sergeant Blackmore said: “Not only were young people involved in some excellent football matches, but it was great to see so many of them, as well as members of the public, engaging with partners and learning more about the White Ribbon and the work that partners do.

“Our aim is to end violence against women and girls, and events like this allow us to educate young people and make a difference.”

The competitive tournament was eventually won by Kilmarnock’s Grange Academy.

White Ribbon Scotland is a national organisation standing up to violence against women for men, organisations, colleges and schools providing crucial information on the issue.

More information on White Ribbon can be found here.