How a Knicker Night raised awareness of Domestic Abuse campaign

RISE UP is the MU campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse across Britain and Ireland. The acronym stands for Respond, Inform, Support, Empower, Unite and Pray. It is our goal that our members and churches will work together to be a part of the change and combat domestic abuse.

Collaborating with two local charities, the night was organised in response to the need for new underwear for women arriving for services from Wigan Women’s Aid. Many women have no other clothing, including underwear, when coming for safety after difficult circumstances.  

Guests of the night included local counsellor Jenny Bullen and the CEO of DIAS Domestic Abuse Centre, Jane Martin. DIAS is a specialist provider of support, advice and counselling for those affected by domestic abuse.

The evening resulted in an amazing 238 pairs of new knickers being donated, with committee member Jane Fennel donating 17 handbags filled with toiletries to DIAS. Members of other MU branches and churches continually contribute to the Women’s Aid, donating items such as bedding, towels and clothing in response to need.  

26 members attended and 11 visitors after the event was shared in the local community. Incredibly, two people signed up as Mothers’ Union members on the night as a direct result of the RISE UP campaign.

The evening started with prayers for those who are survivors of domestic abuse or have been affected by it, followed by a quiz on the topic, which was utilised as a learning opportunity. The feedback after the event was positive, with attendees stating they had learnt a great deal. Games were also played, and an encouraging evening was had by all.

“I feel privileged to be part of such a dynamic Mothers Union” - Patricia Hamilton-Whittaker, Branch Secretary

Find out more about our RISE UP campaign, and how to get involved with this and other MU projects in your local area today.