Stop the Violence
Stop the Abuse
Thank you for visiting our Campaigns page. Here at First Features we are only too aware of the long-term physical, emotional and psychological damage of domestic abuse. Every day we hear from women who have been in controlling or violent relationships or who are still in that environment right now. The results can be truly shocking. Two women are killed every week in England and Wales by a partner or former partner. There are nearly 13 million incidents of domestic violence against women annually in the UK. We need to help stop the abuse NOW!
That is why we have teamed up with Refuge – a charity for women and children against domestic violence – to provide help, information and support to those in need. Refuge has a national 24-hour helpline for support and advice and also provides safe houses all over the country for those escaping domestic violence and abuse. The address is confidential and no men are allowed in the building. A refuge is a place where women can be sure they are safe, and where they can access emotional and practical support from staff who understand what they have been through.
First Features Ltd donates £1 from every story sold to Refuge.
Director Katy Weitz says:
"Here at First Features we have heard so many terrible stories of women suffering real mental and physical torture. The after-effects can go on for years and often children are left severely scarred by their experiences. Our message is clear – we will keep telling the same tragic stories over and over again until the abuse has ended. Help stop the abuse now. Today."
Stop the Violence! Stop the Abuse!
Find out how you too can support the important work of Refuge
Refuge Chief Executive Sandra Horley says:
"Sadly at Refuge we are all too aware that domestic violence is a serious crime that claims the lives of two women each week. It is important to remember that domestic violence is abusive or controlling behaviour that increases in severity and frequency over time. There is not always physical abuse, it can be emotional and psychological, with constant criticisms, insults and threatening, jealous and possessive behaviour. Many women simply don't realise that what they are experiencing is domestic violence and they don't seek help. If you think you know someone who could be at risk then please encourage them to call the Freephone 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247 run in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge. It might just save a life."
Hearing from those who have survived abuse can be a real inspiration. Read Rachel Titheridge’s story:
"I had been on my own for a little while when I met Gary through work. I was slow to introduce him to my children as I wanted to be sure about him, but was reassured by the fact he was a Special Police Officer and had children of his own in a previous relationship..."
Click here to read Rachel's whole story
Find out how it works from beginning to end as Katy explains the whole process of selling your story.
Watch it HERE!
Dear First Features,
Can I decide which publication to go with?
"Katy - I must say a big thank you! It's so refreshing to be treated as a person, not just a number on the end of a phone or email."
- Marilyn Woodland, Bristol
