THE CHARITY MOTHERS’ UNION has joined together in partnership with Women’s Aid to support the Come Together to End Domestic Abuse campaign, urging everyone to play their part in ending domestic abuse.
An estimated 1.6 million women experience domestic abuse every year. Three women are killed each fortnight by a current or ex-partner. Many women do not report abuse due to fear of being judged or not believed.
Mothers’ Union has partnered with Women’s Aid for this new campaign, with Mothers’ Union members committing to raise awareness, dispel myths and take action to End Domestic Abuse
Women’s Aid and Mothers’ Union have shared five ways that that people can help. These are:
- Make a change where you are – whether it is your workplace, school or sports club. Is there a domestic abuse policy? Is there a poster in the bathroom or in communal spaces on how to get help? Has anyone had domestic abuse training?
- Dispel myths about domestic abuse and challenge sexism – it is not your fault if you are being abused by your partner, and abuse does not happen because the abuser was provoked. Sexist attitudes to women’s and men’s roles must be challenged to end domestic abuse.
- Take action, your voice counts – join campaigns for better government protection for survivors, or fundraise to help bring change. Hold a local event or take part in a challenge.
- Learn what to say to someone experiencing abuse – understand the reasons why it may not be easy to leave. Information can be found on the Women’s Aid website.
- Speak up – show we are standing up against domestic abuse together. Share news of what you are doing in your local area or online to help stop domestic abuse and support survivors. Show positive examples of how we can make a difference to encourage others to join with us.
Farah Nazeer, chief executive of Women’s Aid said: “From my work at Women’s Aid, I know how powerful it can be when we come together to achieve change, which is why I’m so pleased we are partnering with Mothers’ Union to do what we can to help end domestic abuse. Whether it’s through fundraising, campaigning, or dispelling myths, we all have a responsibility to help end domestic abuse, and we can all make a difference. It is up to all of us to help ensure women and children are safe, and I encourage everyone to play their part. By coming together and joining forces, we can make a real difference to the lives of women and children, helping to achieve a world where domestic abuse is no longer tolerated.”
Bev Jullien, Mothers’ Union CEO, said: “I’m very proud that Mothers’ Union are the first national charity to partner with Women’s Aid on the Come Together to End Domestic Abuse campaign. Our 45,000 members across the UK are taking action, sharing information and supporting their communities to end domestic abuse. Together we can end all forms of domestic abuse.”
Mothers’ Union is a movement of 4 million Christians in 84 countries worldwide. Members work as volunteers in local communities, and challenge systems that perpetuate injustice at the local, national and international level.
Women’s Aid is the national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children.
* Access information and support on domestic abuse here.
* Source: Women’s Aid