First Pan-Ayrshire White Ribbon Cup Inspires Young People to Stand Against Violence

Issued 18 June 2026

Communities across Ayrshire came together in a powerful show of unity and commitment to end violence against women and girls at the inaugural Pan‑Ayrshire White Ribbon Cup, held at Townhead Park, Cumnock last week (10 June).

Delivered through a groundbreaking partnership between Police Scotland, White Ribbon Scotland, and Violence Against Women and Girls Partnerships across East, North and South Ayrshire, the event marked a significant step forward in collective action to challenge abuse in all its forms.

Hosted by Cumnock Juniors Community Enterprise, the White Ribbon Cup brought together pupils from every secondary school across Ayrshire for an energising five‑a‑side football tournament, held alongside a programme of educational activities, partner engagement and awareness‑raising opportunities.

With the global excitement of the World Cup as its backdrop, the event used the universal language of sport to spark meaningful conversations about respect, equality and healthy relationships.

The Cup builds on the success of South Ayrshire Council's White Ribbon Trophy and demonstrates the strength of partnership working across the region. By taking a pan‑Ayrshire approach, partners are reinforcing a shared vision to tackle violence against women and girls and to drive lasting change.

Throughout the day, participants were invited to make the White Ribbon Promise — a pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about abuse in any form.

Councillor Laura Brennan-Whitefield, Chair of the South Ayrshire Violence Against Women Partnership, said: "Events like the White Ribbon Cup are vital in helping to start important conversations with young people about respect, equality and healthy relationships.

"This tournament builds on the success of our White Ribbon Trophy, which we have delivered in South Ayrshire over the past three years as part of the 16 Days of Action campaign.

"By bringing schools and communities together in a positive environment, we can empower the next generation to challenge harmful attitudes and play an active role in preventing violence against women and girls."