A powerful community-focused event will take place in Barnstaple later this month to mark Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week (2-8 February).
For Her, We Sing Louder Than Silence takes place on Saturday 31 January in Barnstaple Pannier Market. The event is the culmination of Flourishing Women, a project led by women in North Devon with lived experience of sexual and domestic violence, delivered by Flourishing Barnstaple in collaboration with Surviving Abuse North Devon (SAND).
The event aims to raise awareness of sexual and domestic violence, promote support services and encourage survivors to seek help. At the heart of the programme is a clear message: survivors are not alone, and North Devon stands in solidarity with them.
A community singalong will take place from midday and people of all ages are invited to join the musical celebration, which will feature songs selected by project participants and performed by local band Soul Endeavour.
No previous singing experience is required and lyrics will be provided, so participants are welcome whether rehearsed or unrehearsed.
The event will also mark the opening of an art installation at Barnstaple Pannier Market celebrating female resilience and community, while raising awareness of sexual and domestic violence. The installation will remain in the market for two weeks, offering a space for reflection, awareness, and conversation.
The event and installation have been organised and delivered by Flourishing Barnstaple, a North Devon Council initiative that aims to revitalise the town by supporting, developing and promoting cultural activity. Funding is provided by the Cultural Development Fund, administered by Arts Council England on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
Michelle Nicholson-Sanz, Flourishing Barnstaple’s Community Engagement Coordinator and project lead for Flourishing Women, said: "This event was shaped by courageous women with lived experience to celebrate female strength and ensure that survivors know they are not alone.
"When sexual and domestic abuse remains unspoken, it can increase feelings of isolation and helplessness, even though survivors are never at fault for what happened to them. By gathering as a community, we raise awareness, celebrate strength, and offer solidarity."
For more information about For Her, We Sing Louder Than Silence, please contact Michelle.Nicholson-Sanz@northdevon.gov.uk.