Bronze Awards for Llandaff MU Branches in Recognition of their Efforts to Raise Awareness of Domestic Violence

Radyr and St Martin’s Caerphilly Mothers’ Union branches are amongst the first to have achieved the Bronze Mothers’ Union Domestic Abuse RISE UP Campaign Award in recognition of their ongoing commitment to raising awareness of, and taking action against, domestic abuse in all its forms. So far just 75 branches have received the award across the UK and Ireland.

RISE UP is an acronym for Respond, Inform, Support, Empower, Unite and Pray, and the campaign is a UK wide initiative which aims to play its part in combating domestic abuse through awareness raising, resources, and support for those affected by domestic abuse, as well as fostering a culture of empathy and empowerment within our churches and communities.

Radyr and St Martin’s met all the criteria to qualify for the bronze award by putting RISE UP posters raising awareness about domestic abuse on public display in their churches, committing to pray for those affected by domestic abuse, and making connections with local domestic abuse support organisations.

Rev’d Sandra Birdsall, our Diocesan MU Chaplain, says, “The Mothers’ Union RISE UP campaign compliments our own diocesan Behind Closed Doors campaign here in Llandaff. It encourages MU branches, Ministry Areas and Churches to provide practical help, support and most importantly a wider awareness of this enormous blight within our society.

As Llandaff Diocesan MU Chaplain, I am extremely proud that two of our branches have already achieved this global award. Even if they cannot see the results immediately, I am confident that our members are already making a difference in the lives of those who feel trapped in abusive relationships.”

Christoph Auckland, Diocese of Llandaff Outreach and Social Justice Lead, added, “The success of Radyr and St Martin's Caerphilly Mother's Union branches is a testament to the compassion, energy, and yearning for justice of Mother's Union here in Llandaff and across Wales.

Domestic abuse and violence against women remain one of the greatest injustices of our age, with 1 in 4 women experiencing domestic abuse in their lifetime, and in the last year alone 2.1 million people aged 16 years and over in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse.

As a diocese we believe the church and faith organisations can and should play our part alongside Welsh Government and other public and third sector partners to make Wales the safest place to be a woman. We are incredibly proud of the close relationship between the diocese and Mother's Union as we both continue to support each other and work together to create a nation where all live free from the fear of domestic abuse and sexual violence.”

You can find more information about the RISE UP Campaign, and the wider work of the Mothers’ Union by visiting their website. We look forward to many more branches achieving this award, and helping to raise awareness of domestic abuse in all its forms across our churches and communities.