News

Tuesday 26 November 2025 – North London NHS Foundation Trust brought together staff, partners, and campaigners for a conference marking White Ribbon Day, the global campaign dedicated to ending male violence against women and girls.

The event also launched the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, running until 10 December, reinforcing the Trust’s commitment to education, reflection, and collective action to build safer, more respectful communities.

A Day of Learning and Advocacy

More than 100 attendees joined the conference, which featured expert presentations on domestic abuse and non-fatal strangulation. Speakers included the Trust’s Safeguarding Domestic Abuse Practitioners Maneek Sahot and Anna Young, alongside Aisling Barker, Islington Training and Development Lead.

Leadership Call to Action

Chief Medical Officer Dr Vincent Kirchner highlighted the vital role men must play in challenging harmful behaviours and fostering a culture of respect:

“As men, we have a crucial role in ending male violence against women and girls. White Ribbon calls on us to take responsibility for the culture we create—challenging harmful ‘banter,’ standing up to sexist attitudes, and modelling respect in every interaction. In healthcare, safety and dignity are non-negotiable. That means listening to survivors, speaking up when something isn’t right, and being visible allies every day—not just on campaign days.”

Dr Kirchner urged male colleagues to actively support the campaign by making the White Ribbon promise, wearing the ribbon, and sparking conversations within their teams:

Diverse Voices and Expertise

The conference also featured contributions from:

•            Dr Philippa Greenfield, North London NHS Foundation Trust's Named Doctor for Safeguarding Adults and Royal College Lead for Women and Mental Health

•            Rashidah Namusisi, Senior Forensic Sister at the Havens Sexual Assault Referral Centre

•            Holly Thomas, Domestic Abuse Prevention Lead at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust

Shirley McNicholas Women’s Lead and Nursing Lead for the Trauma Informed Strategic Team, and Andie Rose, expert by experience and campaigner for women’s mental health and justice chaired the conference. 

The conference underscored the Trust’s dedication to tackling gender-based violence, amplifying survivor voices, and driving cultural change across healthcare and beyond.