Newcastle College earns White Ribbon status

A further education provider in the North East has been recognised for its work to promote safer, more inclusive environments for women and girls.

Newcastle College has been awarded White Ribbon Accreditation by White Ribbon UK, recognising its commitment to challenging harmful behaviours and fostering a culture where women feel safe, respected and able to thrive.

The college will establish a new steering group made up of White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions from across the organisation to lead awareness campaigns, encourage behavioural change and embed the initiative into campus life. 

Over the next three years, the group will oversee activity aimed at improving safety, equality and wellbeing. 

A spokesperson for White Ribbon UK said: “White Ribbon Accredited organisations are able to make a real difference towards ending violence against women by promoting a culture of respect and equality. 

“By raising awareness and educating the public, we can create a safer and more inclusive society. 

“We are pleased to recognise the progress made by Newcastle College in working towards achieving its White Ribbon Accreditation, and we hope they will continue to build on this work and keep the campaign’s core aims at the heart of everything they do.”

Lisa Hamilton-Murray, deputy principal at Newcastle College, added: “Achieving White Ribbon Accreditation is an important moment for us. 

“It reflects our commitment to creating an environment where women and girls feel safe, valued and able to succeed. 

“This accreditation is not a badge – it is a responsibility, and our new steering group will help ensure that we continue to develop a culture that promotes respectful behaviour and empowers staff and students to be active allies.”

The accreditation, announced to coincide with International Women’s Day (March 8), marks another step in the college’s wider support for female students.

Alongside the initiative, Newcastle College continues to work with West End Women and Girls Centre to deliver workshops aimed at building confidence and life skills. 

It has also launched the GIRL (Get Industry Ready Lasses) programme, designed to help female students develop ambition, confidence and industry-ready skills.

Jon Ridley, principal of Newcastle College, added: “Newcastle College is an inclusive community and the safety and welfare of our staff and students is central to who we are. 

“By signing up to White Ribbon, we are making a clear commitment to never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women. 

“This isn’t a new direction for us – it reflects the values of our college. 

“Standing up for respect, equality and the right to feel safe and secure is in our DNA.”

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