Charity launches campaign to encourage men to stand against domestic abuse
A new campaign has been launched by a domestic abuse charity, to encourage men in Nottinghamshire to take a stand against violence towards women and girls.
The Notts500 initiative aims to recruit 500 men to pledge their support and help raise funds for Juno Women’s Aid’s efforts in assisting women and families affected by abusive relationships.
The campaign is led by four supporters of Juno: Kevin Smith, a director at Marchini Curran Associates, Amani Darr from TDX/Equifax, Tom Snee, a director at Cartwright Communications and Notts TV presenter Al Booth.
Tasarla Larner, Juno’s fundraising and communications manager, said: “As a women-only organisation, men cannot directly work or volunteer with us, but we are always being asked how they can be involved. Many men have told us that they want to do something meaningful and to be a part of changing attitudes and we thought this would be an ideal opportunity. We’re so grateful to our four supporters in our aim to sign up 500 men who will pledge £2 a month towards our vital services.”
Al Booth said: “Even though I work within it, I think how the media reports violence against women and girls needs to change. There seems to be a focus on how women can protect themselves from attacks or spikings. What we need to focus on is how we create allyship for women and be better as men and boys. That’s why this campaign is crucial; it’s about creating a platform where voices can be heard, and real change can begin. For me, it starts with education both for myself and for my son. It’s about starting those conversations early, teaching young boys and men the values of respect, equality, and empathy.
“My involvement in Notts500 comes from that same belief: the change begins at home, with open conversations, encouraging curiosity, and a commitment to raising the next generation with a deeper understanding of the impact their actions can have on others.”
