Gender Based Violence

Mothers' Union is active in the heart of communities

Mothers’ Union is committed to supporting healthy and flourishing relationships. One of the greatest threats to individuals, families and societies around the world, is violence and abuse which is carried out against women and girls because of their gender, or which affects women and girls disproportionately.

As part of our ongoing work to end gender-based violence, we are committed to supporting those who have been affected by domestic abuse by supporting individuals and communities practically, and encouraging and advocating for change at local, national and international levels.

Meeting needs and empowering women 

• In the DRC, Mothers’ Union members work closely with survivors, in particular those affected by sexual violence as a result of conflict, by providing emotional support, meeting basic needs such as housing, and equipping them with skills to become economically empowered.

• In the UK, members work closely with local domestic violence refuges, providing essentials such as toiletries, food and clothing for women and children who have been forced to flee their home due to violence.

• Mothers' Union fund counseling for those survivors of domestic violence and rape in war-torn countires such as Sudan. 

Creating change through our programme work 

• Through our Literacy and Financial Education Programme: around the world we seek to educate and empower women in particular. In areas where this programme has been run, women often report a decrease in domestic abuse, and more equal and positive relationships in the home.

• Men whose wives have benefited from our programmes frequently report that as a result of the programme, they now see their partners as equals, and where once they would have been violent towards them, they now treat them with dignity and respect.

Prayer, emotional and spiritual support

• In the DRC, Mothers’ Union runs Bible study sessions for women who have experienced sexual violence, looking at what the Bible says about the issue, encouraging women to understand that they are made in the image of God; rebuilding self esteem, worth and confidence; and breaking stigma and shame.

• Frequently members here in the UK and overseas take part in silent prayer vigils to pray for those affected by domestic violence.

Advocacy and campaigns

• We work tirelessly to challenge the mechanisms that perpetuate injustice at all levels, and advocate with decision-makers and those in power to bring about necessary change, including changes to local and national laws and policies.

• We campaign for legislation which prevents gender-based violence, by tackling root causes including gender inequality, and harmful norms and attitudes about gender; as well as calling for all forms of violence against women and girls to be outlawed everywhere.

• Members throughout the world take part in our 16 Days of Activism campaign to raise awareness of gender-based violence. 

• Mothers' Union members have held workshops with church leaders and those in authority, raising awareness of domestic abuse and the harm it causes.