Ards and North Down Borough Council Supports PSNI'S The Power to Change Campaign

Released: Monday 23 March 2026

Mayor, Councillor Gillian McCollum with PSNI's Detective Chief Inspector Leah Crothers support Power to Change Campaign

Ards and North Down Borough Council is proud to continue to support The Power to Change - an initiative by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Department of Justice and the Executive Office, urging men and boys across Northern Ireland to reflect on and change their attitudes and behaviours towards women and girls.

The campaign challenges men and boys to step away from negative attitudes, challenge inappropriate behaviour among peers, and act as safe, active bystanders when they see harassment, misogyny or harmful behaviour occurring in their communities.

The PSNI emphasises that ending violence against women and girls requires men and boys to be part of the solution. The campaign focuses on two key elements:

Challenging attitudes and behaviours by encouraging men to consider the impact of their words and actions.
Empowering "active bystanders", giving men and the wider community the confidence and tools to safely intervene when witnessing unacceptable behaviour.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum said:

"Violence against women and girls has no place in our society, and meaningful change can only happen when men and boys actively choose to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours. The Power to Change campaign sends a clear and necessary message: we all have a role to play in creating safer, more respectful communities. I encourage everyone across our Borough to engage with this initiative and take a stand for the safety and dignity of women and girls."

The Council recognises the importance of cultural and societal change in tackling misogyny and gender‑based violence and welcomes efforts that empower men and boys to take responsibility, challenge harmful behaviours, and foster safer communities for women and girls.