Local Organisations Unite to Tackle Violence Against Women and Girls

Community organisations across Causeway Coast and Glens recently came together for a training day as part of efforts to end violence against women and girls. The event, funded by the Change Fund from The Executive Office, provided an opportunity to understand the scale of gender-based violence locally and explore how grassroots organisations can support those affected.

Kates Coates, Interim CEO at Causeway and Mid Ulster Women’s Aid, delivered a presentation highlighting the current levels of violence against both women and men, the challenges of coercive and financial abuse and the ways Women’s Aid helps families to become safe.

Neighbourhood Police Team Sergeant Wendy McConnell and Chief Inspector Clare Willis outlined the broad range of responses to domestic violence across the Borough, both day and night. They emphasised that every domestic violence call is followed up sensitively, described partnerships with other agencies, discussed night-time safety challenges and shared details of local initiatives including the Ask for Angela campaign and Community Safety talks in neighbourhoods across the area.

Michelle Major, from the Sunshine Project, spoke about the long-term impact of trauma, ways individuals can heal and the importance of handling disclosures with care and sensitivity.

The day not only provided expert local knowledge but also helped strengthen links between community and statutory sectors, opening up further opportunities for collaboration in protecting vulnerable people.