Trusted communities, safer futures: rethinking support for survivors of domestic abuse
Join our in-person seminar on Tuesday, 3 November to explore how policymakers can work with faith-based organisations to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) is a pervasive public health issue, affecting more than one third of women globally. In England and Wales, two women are killed each week by a current or former male partner.
In the UK, ethnic minority women face unique and compounded barriers to disclosing abuse and accessing support services. Despite policy advancements, these women often remain underserved due to systemic, cultural, and institutional challenges. Faith-based organisations (FBOs) and community networks emerge as vital, yet underutilised, support systems for all women, but particularly for women from migrant and ethnic minority backgrounds.
Research at The University of Manchester shows that FBOs and community leaders are often the first point of contact for women experiencing abuse. These organisations provide culturally familiar and trusted spaces for disclosure. However, FBOs may lack the training or resources to respond effectively, and their involvement is not systematically integrated into statutory service frameworks.
Join Dr Omolade Allen, Senior Lecturer in Global Health Research, and Kate Smith, Gender-Based Violence and Victims Principal at GMCA, to explore how stronger partnerships between statutory services and FBOs and integrating FBOs into DVA response frameworks can build trust and improve service uptake.
Speakers
- Dr Omolade Allen, Senior Lecturer in Global Health Research
- Kate Smith, Gender-Based Violence and Victims Principal, Safer & Stronger Communities, GMCA
When: Tuesday, 3 November 2026, 1:00 - 2.30pm (registration from 12.30pm)
Where: The University of Manchester (room details provided upon registration)