The North West Methodist Mission was delighted to be hosted by the Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr and key partners in support of White Ribbon Day.

Staff from the North West Methodist Mission were among those hosted by the Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council on Sunday to recognise their work to promote the importance of the White Ribbon movement.

The Civic Reception was attended by representatives from North West Methodist Mission, Leaders of the four main churches, the Western Health and Social Care Trust, Police Service of Northern Ireland, Foyle Women's Aid and artist Talia Sena.

White Ribbon Day (25th November) is a time to remember, reflect, listen and act for change to stop violence against women and girls before it starts.

Mission Director said, "It is encouraging to see key agencies and civic leaders come together to support the White Ribbon campaign by signing the Charter. The Charter is a personal pledge to never commit, condone, or remain silent about violence against women.”

The Mayor, along with the two local bishops, then attended the White Ribbon prayer service held in Clooney Hall Methodist Church, led by Deacon Marlene Skuce.

The Methodist Church in Ireland is committed to every church being a safe place. As a Church we have a part to play by listening, believing, loving and supporting victims, we don’t need to be experts but through the Safe Place initiative we can direct victims to where the experts are.

A related art exhibition, ‘Breaking Through to Freedom’, featuring the work of Talia Sena is open to all on Tuesday and Wednesday this week in the Guildhall.