Kettering borough to host week of domestic abuse awareness events

Kettering Council, The Sunflower Centre and Northampton Women’s Aid will be increasing the number of staff trained, visiting local schools and bringing an Awareness Week stall to various locations in the area.

On Monday, November 28, staff from Kettering Council will be trained up by Sunflower Centre and Northampton Women’s Aid to help them identify those who may be experiencing domestic abuse and outline services available for support.

On Tuesday, November 29, Year 9 students at Kettering Buccleuch Academy, Montsaye Academy and Southfield School will watch AlterEgo performances of ‘Tough Love’.

‘Tough Love’ is an innovative 30-minute long Applied Theatre play which raises awareness around coercive control and domestic abuse in teenage intimate relationships.

The play is followed by a 30-minute plenary session exploring the issues raised.

On Wednesday, November 30, there will be an Awareness Week stall at Tresham College in Kettering over lunch and break times.

On Thursday, December 1, there will be an Awareness Week stall in Newlands Shopping Centre from 10am to 2pm.

Throughout the final day (Friday) the Awareness Week stall will visit the libraries in Burton Latimer, Rothwell and Desborough.

Shirley Plenderleith, head of public services at Kettering Council, said: “Tackling domestic violence and abuse is a priority for the council and our partners. 

“It has a devastating effect on the victim but also impacts on the whole family.

“I would encourage anyone who is a victim or is aware of someone who is, to contact one of the many agencies who are available to help.”

Cllr Jan Smith, Kettering Council’s portfolio holder for community and leisure, said: “Domestic abuse is an appalling crime that shatters lives and we are determined to ensure that victims are able to receive the support they need.

“It’s great to see local partners working together like this to raise awareness of such an important matter and the support that is available.”

Ann Bodsworth, joint chief executive of Northampton Women’s Aid, said: “Through our work we will continue to help victims to either leave violent relationships, live more safely within relationships or support the prosecution of offenders.

“If you are a victim, or you know of anyone who is suffering at the hands of an abusive partner, report them to us.”