Tonight, a powerful documentary on Queen Camilla will shine a spotlight on domestic abuse and violence. In the programme, the Queen will reflect on her dedication to this cause and how important it is for women and children to live without violence. The Queen will also share her personal resolve to continue her advocacy until she is “able to do no more.” These are powerful words from someone who has a unique position in the world.
At Juno, we are delighted that the Queen is committed to amplifying these issues and challenging the stigma that effects victims and survivors. Her high profile in this country, and internationally, means that her message is repeated throughout the world. And at Juno, we know that this message needs to be heard more.
In the UK, on average, two women are killed each week through domestic abuse. That’s two lives that are cut short, two sets of hopes and dreams vanished, and countless other lives affected. Each of those women had people in their lives they loved and cared about – parents, siblings, friends, and for many, also children. The devastation of losing someone in this violent way has a huge impact. So, Queen Camilla’s highlighting of this subject is welcomed by all of us who want to build a safer future for women and children.
Queen Camilla has a long history of advocating in this area and shows a keen interest to get involved. When many other public figures may shy away from this sensitive subject, the Queen has taken on the patronage of the charity Safelives, who are focused on domestic abuse, and has been involved with many other initiatives. These include the Wash Bags Project started by the Queen in 2013 which provides victims of rape and sexual assault with toiletries after a forensic examination. Any service working with survivors of domestic and sexual abuse is sadly under-resourced. However, with the Queen spearheading this initiative, the Wash Bags initiative has been able to provide a valuable contribution, and give some dignity, to those who have experienced a traumatic event.
The Queen has taken her efforts internationally and has visited the USA, India (Asha Sadan in Mumbai) and the Balkans with this message of stopping violence and abuse. She has spoken at high-profile events and been involved in roundtable discussions. Here at Juno, we are grateful for this. The World Health Organisation statistics state that 30% of women – that’s 1 in 3 – experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. And we know that domestic abuse is also affecting teenagers and younger girls too, which is why here at Juno, we work with young people who see domestic abuse in the home, or experience it themselves in their own intimate relationships.
We share Queen Camilla’s passion and commitment to stopping domestic abuse. It is a huge goal, and one that won’t happen overnight. But it is worth it. And we won’t stop trying.
There are many stories of women who have survived domestic abuse and gone on to live free from violence. If you are a woman or young person who is suffering any form of domestic abuse please know that we are here for you. Another way of living is possible.
All our help is free and confidential. We have processes in place to keep you safe. Our helpline is a great way to contact us, and it’s available 24 hours a day, every single day of the year. The number is 08088 000340. Our helpline staff are friendly, understanding and are waiting to hear from you.
Read more about the Queen’s work here: https://www.royal.uk/the-queens-work-on-violence-against-women
Programme details: Her Majesty The Queen: Behind Closed Doors: 11 November, 21.00, ITV1