Shining a Spotlight on Behaviour that leads to Violence Against Women and Girls

A powerful play examining themes of control and violence in relationships and the importance of communication and respect to avoid harm has been shown to over 1,000 post-primary school students across the district.

The hard hitting production is part of Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council’s continued campaign and commitment to Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG).

Entitled The Voice Within, the specially commissioned play written and directed by Spanner in the Works Theatre Company, follows a teenage partnership and highlights behaviours and attitudes that lead to control and violence in a relationship. 

The production, which was followed by an interactive workshop, highlighted the signs of harmful and coercive behaviour that can lead to women and girls experiencing violence and abuse in relationships.

Organised and delivered by the Council’s seven District Electoral Areas (DEAs), the play is supported by The Executive Office Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Momentum Funding and concluded with a performance in Newry Town Hall on 24 February which was attended by Newry, Mourne and Down Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell.

He described the production as a powerful and deeply moving portrayal of the need to end violence against women and girls and commended everyone involved in the initiative.

“The play helps young people understand behaviour that can lead to control and violence in a relationship, with the compelling narrative resonating with them. The Voice Within gave a voice to experiences which are too often silenced,” said the Council Chairperson.

“The play provided an insight into the harmful, coercive behaviour that can lead to women and girls experiencing violence and abuse in their relationship. Such behaviour has no place in society. Women and girls should feel safe at all times.”

Cllr Campbell said Newry, Mourne and Down District Council remains determined to tackle the issue of violence against women and girls and believes the compelling play has provided students with an insight into controlling behaviour that has no place in society.

“The Voice Within sheds a light on experiences that are all too often silenced. It confronts difficult realities, helps educate young people, challenge them and inspire them to play their part in ending violence against women and young girls. Indeed, we can all play our part,” said the Chairperson

Cllr Campbell said The Voice Within not only encourages young people to have meaningful conversations about the issue but serves as a call to action.

“We all need to commit ourselves to doing everything we can to end violence against women and girls. The reality of what is happening was brought to life by The Voice Within which, I know, will help make a lasting difference,” said the Chairperson.

Cllr Campbell added: “Women and girls have a right to live free from threat or harm in any shape or form.”