A community quilt, made by women and children affected by domestic abuse and modern slavery, has been unveiled in Sandwell.
The quilt was created in October, as the women and children of the Black Country Women’s Aid refuge services came together to share their thoughts, experiences and hurt of violence and abuse and the impact that it had on their lives.
The quilt is filled with positive words and imagery and aims to raise awareness of domestic abuse, as well as helping to mark White Ribbon Day and the start of the 16 Days of Action against Gender-Based Violence.
White Ribbon Day (25 November) is a global campaign to end male violence against women and girls.
The unveiling, held at West Bromwich Central on Monday 27 November, was attended by the Leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, the council’s Chief Executive, Shokat Lal, and Black Country Women’s Aid Chief Executive Officer, Sara Ward.
The quilt will be touring different venues over the coming days for people to be able to see it in detail.
Sara Ward, Black Country Women’s Aid CEO, said: “This is an important symbol of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the hurt and harm it causes.
"The women and children living in refuge wanted the community to know that they want to live a life free from abuse. They see hope and opportunity by seeking help and support. No one should tolerate abuse. Black Country Women’s Aid is here to help.”
Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, Sandwell Council Leader, said: “The quilt sends out a message of a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of abuses and shows our commitment to working together with our partner organisations to end violent and controlling behaviour in Sandwell.
“As part of the 16 Days of Action campaign, we want as many men as possible to make the White Ribbon Promise never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.”
You can see the quilt in person at:
• Sandwell Council House reception, Freeth Street, Oldbury, B69 3DB on Wednesday 29 November from 9.30am-4pm
• Jubilee Park (Places of Welcome Centre), Powis Avenue, DY4 0RJ on Friday 1 December from 11am-1pm
• Sandwell Council House reception, Freeth Street, Oldbury, B69 3DB on Friday 8 December from 9.30am-4pm
The quilt was on display at West Bromwich Central Library on Monday 27 November and Glebefields Library, St Mark’s Road, Tipton, DY4 0SZ on Tuesday 28 November.
Nationally and locally within Sandwell, domestic abuse has a devastating impact on the victim, their families and the wider community.
Anyone who is suffering this abuse should report it to the police on 101 or, in an emergency, always call 999.
People can seek specialist support from Black Country Women’s Aid on 0121 552 6448, which is available 24 hours a day. Or text/WhatsApp on 07384 466 181 (9am-9pm Monday-Friday). You can speak to an advisor on webchat. Black Country Women’s Aid supports female and male victims of domestic abuse.
Alternatively, there is a service for men and boys who have experienced domestic abuse, rape and sexual abuse. Contact Ask Marc by phone (0121 289 6402), email info@askmarc.org.uk or visit the Ask Marc website for more information.
Birmingham LGBT Centre can also provide a range of support services for LGBT victims.
You can also contact Sandwell Council’s Housing Solutions Team on 0121 368 1166, Option 2 for Housing Solutions or email housing_choice@sandwell.gov.uk
More information on support available for people experiencing domestic abuse