‘It Starts with Us’ – Flintshire man joins call to end violence against women
A Flintshire resident is urging men to take a stand against violence against women and girls.
Sharing his personal journey on White Ribbon Day, Cal Roberts, 35, from Bagillt, highlighted the importance of understanding healthy relationships and the role men can play as allies.
Reflecting on his past, Cal admitted to displaying unhealthy behaviours in previous relationships but credited the Welsh Government’s Sound campaign for helping him change.
“Understanding what healthy relationships look like is key in helping us recognise behaviours like misogyny, gaslighting, or love bombing – things somebody might not have realised are harmful,” he said.
“If Sound had been around when I was in my 20s, it would’ve resolved my issues much quicker and made me address my behaviours sooner. It starts with one act, one conversation – and it makes all the difference.”
Campaign to End Violence Against Women
Cal’s story is part of the Welsh Government’s broader Sound campaign, which reaches over 380,000 young men across Wales, promoting respect and accountability.
The campaign also tackles harmful behaviours such as coercive control and gaslighting, using positive role models to inspire change.
This year, Sound has partnered with White Ribbon to launch the Sound Ally guide, a resource offering practical advice for men to challenge inappropriate behaviour and support women.
Jane Hutt, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, emphasised the urgency of action:
“Every woman has the right to live free from fear, violence, and exploitation. Violence against women and girls is not inevitable – it is preventable.
“Our Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Strategy sets out a commitment to make early intervention and prevention a priority, and to encourage those who may go on to commit abusive behaviour to change.
“The Sound campaign encourages men aged 18–34 in Wales to learn about gender-based violence and to think about their own behaviours. It is not for women to modify their behaviour; it is for men and boys to reflect on their own and make changes.”
Support Available
In Wales, recorded incidents of violence against women increased by 37% between 2018 and 2023.
With at least one in 12 women experiencing male violence each year, the Welsh Government’s efforts include preventative initiatives like the Sound campaign and resources such as the Live Fear Free helpline:
- Call: 0808 8010 800
- Text: 0786 007 7333
- Email: [email protected]
- Live Chat: via the website
For those in immediate danger, dial 999 and press 55 to alert the police discreetly.
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