Highland Heathers host awareness event on violence against women and girls in Kilkeel

THE Highland Heathers, a local group of Mourne ladies with a shared interest in learning about and promoting their Ulster-Scots heritage, have hosted their second successful awareness event focused on ending violence against women and girls (EVAWG).

The event, held at the Kilmorey Arms Hotel in Kilkeel, brought together a full room of attendees for an evening of listening, learning and sharing, with a strong emphasis on raising awareness of violence against women and girls and ensuring people know where to access help and support.

A range of speakers shared their professional knowledge, personal experiences and practical advice, highlighting the importance of education, prevention and community support in tackling this important issue.

Fiona McNaughton from Women’s Aid outlined the support available to those affected by domestic abuse, while Jayne Stewart from Embrace Ministries courageously shared her powerful personal experience. Cathy Macdonald from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) provided real-life examples and valuable contacts and resources, while Lucinda Love Teggarty, Youth Advice Worker, offered helpful advice and guidance.

William Davidson also delivered practical and informative self-defence instruction, giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about personal safety.

The event was further supported by Glyn Hanna, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, who attended to show his support for the initiative.

South Down DUP MLA Diane Forsythe, a former Women’s Aid worker and Chair of the Assembly’s All-Party Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence, shared her considerable knowledge and experience before bringing the evening to a close.

Speaking following the event, Diane Forsythe said she was honoured to be part of such a powerful occasion, which featured strong and emotional contributions from a range of excellent speakers.

She emphasised that everyone has an important role to play in ending violence against women and girls in Northern Ireland, stressing the need to continue raising awareness and supporting those who need help.

Diane also reiterated her commitment to supporting anyone who may need assistance, offering a confidential point of contact for those seeking guidance or support.

She thanked The Highland Heathers for the invitation and for organising such a successful evening, adding that it was wonderful to see a full room of people coming together around such an important issue.

The Highland Heathers also expressed their sincere gratitude to all the speakers for generously sharing their time, knowledge and experience, as well as to the Kilmorey Arms Hotel for its excellent service and delicious supper, which helped make the evening such an enjoyable occasion.

Above all, the organisers thanked everyone who attended and supported the event, recognising the importance of creating opportunities for people to learn, ask questions and discover where help is available.

The event was made possible through the EVAWG Change Fund, funded by The Executive Office, with support from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

The Highland Heathers hope the event will help keep the conversation going within the local community, encouraging people to listen, learn and look out for one another.

Their message was clear: every conversation, every new piece of knowledge and every connection to support can make a difference in working towards a safer future for all women and girls.