Premier League urged to step up on violence against women and girls | OneFootball

Campaigners say the Premier League’s response to violence against women and girls lags behind its anti-racism, LGBTQ+ and mental health drives, with no league-wide campaign despite police chiefs declaring a national emergency in 2024.

A Premier League spokesperson said the league condemns abuse, funds community work and pilot projects, and partners with White Ribbon, police and specialists to drive lasting change. It also plans a fan ambassador programme by the end of the season.

Official data show one in eight women in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse, sexual assault or stalking in the year to March 2025. The ONS recorded 155 female homicide victims that year, with charged cases showing 90 percent of suspects were men and partners or ex-partners most common for victims aged 16 or over.

Other leagues have staged unified campaigns. Serie A’s Un Rosso Alla Violenza around White Ribbon Day uses visible on-field messaging, while La Liga has run pre-match banners and armbands. In England, some clubs have hosted Her Game Too fixtures without league involvement.

Clubs have partnered with groups such as White Ribbon, including awareness work at Chelsea and Bournemouth, yet engagement varies and there is no consistent platform. Advocates want leadership, sustained messaging and training to challenge misogyny. The league’s Safeguarding Standards include education on consent, relationships and harassment.

Source: NY Times