A place to belong

This year’s theme is ‘inspire inclusion’:

“When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.” - International Women’s Day

It’s a theme that resonates powerfully with our work at Restored. Every day, we work to provide a space of belonging for survivors of domestic abuse in our online Survivors’ Network. Our small groups empower women to own their stories, encouraging each other on the journey of healing and giving hope for the future. Women who have so often felt at the margins find a place where they are listened to, cared for and understood.

But we don’t stop there.

Survivors of domestic abuse need more than an online platform - they need spaces of belonging in their communities, made up of people they can build relationships with face to face. Who better to fill this gap than local churches?

We know that, sadly, many Christian survivors have been let down by churches that were meant to care for them, but we believe that it doesn’t need to be that way. At their best, churches are ready-made communities of care where the lonely, marginalised and vulnerable can find support. Places of radical inclusion, where survivors of domestic abuse can find a place to belong.

This International Women's Day, could you consider how to #InspireInclusion for survivors of domestic abuse?