Futures supports domestic abuse campaign

East Midlands based Futures Housing Group has supported an international 16-day campaign to end violence against women and girls.

The housing association took part in a variety of activities in November and December to support the charity White Ribbon on its White Ribbon Day and ‘16 Days of Activism’.  

Futures started the campaign by sharing messages of support from male colleagues in a video, followed by colleagues and charity Salcare joining forces to complete a ‘race the dark’ walking challenge before the sun set.  

Hannah Iliffe, Freedom Programme Facilitator at Salcare said: “We knew it was extremely important to join the walk and represent Salcare. It was a great opportunity to meet others who are also passionate about making a stand against domestic abuse. Spreading awareness is fundamental in trying to stop violence against women and girls and events like this give various sectors a chance to work together to achieve this.” 

Other activities included a bake sale, sharing helpful resources with customers, fundraising over £260 for White Ribbon, and an interview with a colleague bravely opening up about her own experiences of domestic abuse. 

Anthea Sully, CEO at White Ribbon said: “It’s vital that women and girls are and feel safe in public and at home. The work that Future has done to support this campaign is really important and helps positively change cultures in their organisation and community. 

“It means everyone, especially men, can better understand the role of allyship and their responsibility in creating positive cultures that enable safe spaces.” 

Kirsty Yates, Housing Operations Manager at Futures said: “It feels important for Futures to support this campaign as we understand the vital role that housing, and our employees, play in keeping customers safe.  

“We help men, women and children in our communities who are affected by domestic abuse, but we know that it disproportionally affects women. We want everyone to have a better understanding of how to prevent violence against women and girls, so we hope the fundraising, videos, case studies and helpful information we’ve shared makes a difference.”