This Saturday’s game against Crewe Alexandra is Cambridge United’s dedicated White Ribbon Matchday, reaffirming our commitment to ending violence against women and girls…
White Ribbon is a global movement encouraging men and boys to speak out, challenge harmful behaviour, and promote respectful relationships.
This work is put into practice via Cambridge United Foundation’s partnership with Pledge United, the UK’s first football-based programme addressing gender-based violence. Delivered in local schools, it uses football to spark honest conversations about respect, equality and the attitudes that can lead to harm.
The programme’s core message is simple: gender-based violence is a male issue, and silence is part of the problem. While not all men are violent, many stay silent when faced with discrimination or unsafe behaviour. Reaching this silent majority is key to creating real cultural change.
This aligns with the 2025 White Ribbon Day theme, “We Speak Up” – encouraging everyone to challenge harmful behaviour when it’s safe to do so.
So far, we have reached 200 boys across five secondary schools and Cambridge United’s U18 scholars, with an encouraging rise in confidence to speak up reported.
By the end of the academic year, it will reach a further 400 young men across three clubs, with plans to grow further.
How you can get involved:
- Visit the White Ribbon stall in the North Habbin Fan Zone
- Reflect on your own behaviour and speak up when something isn’t right
- Become a White Ribbon Ambassador and spread the message in your community
Every action - big or small - helps prevent violence against women and girls. Change starts with all of us.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, free and confidential support is available. You can find help here.
