RUGBY fans are being urged to help tackle violence against women.

Supporters attending the Glasgow Warriors versus Montpellier Herault match at Scotstoun next month will be invited to sign the White Ribbon Scotland pledge as part of the city's 16 days of action.

The XV1th Warrior fan club has teamed up with the city's Violence Against Women Partnership to encourage the crowd to pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about all forms of violence against women.

The action is part of a global campaign highlighting gender based violence and the work being done around the world to tackle it.

This year the theme is Leave No One Behind and people are encouraged to wear white ribbons to show their support.

Robert Stewart, chairman of the Warriors support group, said: "The vast majority of men are appalled at violence against women and this is a chance for them to do their bit to challenge it.

"A lot of families attend the rugby and by signing the pledge and wearing a white ribbon, men will be acting as good role models to their sons and empowering their daughters.

"They will also be highlighting the issue and sending out a clear message to offenders that inappropriate attitudes and behaviour will not be accepted."

The Daisy Project and Glasgow's Women's Library have also got together to create a theatre production highlighting the journey of women who have overcome abuse.

"Her Spirit Soared" will tell the story of female strength and resilience to beat gender inequality, forced marriage, family abuse and controlling partners. It will be staged at the Tramway on Saturday November 30.

PEEK (Possibilities for Each and Every Child) has been working with four groups of young women on a 10 week programme exploring issues such as body image, violence against women, gender stereotyping and the sexualisation of women in the media.

Glasgow's Violence Against Women Partnership has launched guidance for youth workers looking at the various types of violence against women and how they have increased with the widespread use of new technology.

Councillor Jim Coleman, chairman of Glasgow's Violence Against Women Partnership, said: "This guidance was developed in recognition of the relationship youth workers have with children and young people.

"We have a responsibility to build their skills and acknowledge to ensure they know how to handle complaints of gender based violence correctly in a youth work setting."