Guest blog – “Why I’m a First Man Standing” by Ben Snuggs

Our First Man Standing campaign asks men to respect women, and to challenge the attitudes and behaviours of themselves and other men that perpetuate violence against women.

Over 1000 men have signed up to it. They come from all walks of life, from all parts of the country. Detective Chief Superintendent Ben Snuggs of Hampshire Police is one of them. We asked him to share with you why he chose to become a First Man Standing.

Ben says, “I am a First Man Standing because it is time that men stand up against the threats, violence and abuse that men subject women to.

“For far too long, violence against women and girls has been an issue affecting women that women have been largely left to fight alone. This is wrong.

“But times are changing and, as part of that change, men have a big role to play. Firstly, we need to recognise that it’s a problem and that men are part of the problem. We know that domestic abuse is not just perpetrated by men, but the vast majority of domestic abuse generally is. Why is it that people feel that domestic abuse, in whatever form, is acceptable?

“I don't have all the answers by any means. However, I feel sure that if men stand up and try their best to be part of the solution rather than stay silent, we all stand a better chance of keeping vulnerable people safe.

That's why I am a First Man Standing.”

If you’re a man – or know a man who would agree with Ben – please do sign up to be a First Man Standing. You can subscribe here to receive our weekly First Man Standing emails, which include actions you can take, Peter Grant’s take on topical news stories, and much more.