This November, we’ll be supporting the *16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, with a series of informative and interactive workshops designed to ignite conversation and highlight the need to end violence towards women and girls.
Building a future where women and girls can be safe is critical, and our events have been created to raise awareness of this importance and to support those surviving domestic abuse, in all its forms.
All events are free however, booking is essential – but please, sign up and get involved – you can be part of the movement that helps drive change:
Dads & Lads – Thursday 27th November 7.30>9.00pm @ Priory Cricket Club
Join us for ‘Brave Conversations Around Masculinity’ with our inspiring guest speaker Matt Pinkett (Author, Speaker and Teacher driving the debate of equality) and ESDAS Trustee Ian Vinall
In this engaging, thought-provoking session, we’ll be exploring questions including:
- Why is it so hard to talk about masculinity?
- What does “being a man” really mean today — and who gets to decide?
We’d love you to join us for this open and honest exploration around how harmful ideas about masculinity impact us all.
Whether it’s pressure to “man up,” stay silent, or suppress emotions, the reality is that many of the traditional expectations placed on men are doing damage to boys growing up, to relationships, and to women and girls.
For here today!
Empower Her – Sunday 30th November 2.00>-5.00pm @ Nutfield Priory Hotel
Key speaker Emily from Jollily will lead the session with an uplifting session focused on building confidence, finding your inner voice and learning to appreciate your body.
Book now and join us for this inspiring workshop led by a vibrant collective of female speakers for women.
There will also be a creative workshop from contemporary artist Lucie Flynn (please sign up on the morning of the session, as participation is limited). Where you can learn how to use the medium of art for personal expression and pushing boundaries.
Nicola Dawes, founder of Stripey Stork, will also share her inspiring journey of turning a simple idea into one of the UK’s largest baby banks. A powerful story of what’s possible when compassion meets action.
And finally, the talented Elesha Paul Moses, who played Tina Turner in the West End and created her own show, The Private Tour, will tell her own uplifting and inspiring story, which is one of resilience, talent, and inspiration
Women and girls around the world continue to face barriers that limit their confidence, expression, and opportunities. Empower Her has been created to celebrate strength, creativity, and self-belief — reminding every woman and girl that her voice, her body, and her story matter.
This jam-packed afternoon of inspiration by women for women is not to be missed! Buy your tickets here.
Safe at Work Empowering Employers to Respond to Domestic Abuse – Monday 1st December 8.45 > 10.00 am @ Reigate Town Hall
Join our breakfast seminar (with coffee and pastries) to explore how employers can make a real difference through understanding, compassion, and practical steps.
- Gain insight into the impact of domestic abuse on employees
- Understand the vital role employers can play in offering support
- Learn practical steps to make your workplace a safe space for those experiencing abuse
Fiona Bowman MBA CIWFM FCMI
Join keynote speaker Fiona Bowman (MBA, CIWFM FCMI) as she relays her inspirational story, escaping a violent and abusive marriage in Scotland (11 years ago) with the help of her employers at Standard Chartered Bank.
Fiona’s experience illustrates how employers can support those surviving domestic abuse, transferring jobs to different locations to make relocation and independence a real possibility.
Her story is amazing and highlights the true value an extended support network can provide.
Who is this session aimed at?
Business owners, HR professionals, managers, and anyone committed to creating a safe and supportive workplace.
Reserved your space at this session here.
CANDLELIT WALK OF REMEMBRANCE – Standing together against Domestic Abuse Redhill Town Centre – Tuesday 9th December 4.30 > 5.30/6.00 pm
Our last annual report documented a 7% increase in referrals, with a total of 3,469 in total compared to 3,237 last year. Over 89% of survivors we worked with were at either high or medium risk of serious harm. 93% of survivors were female, and 604 had children.
But behind every statistic is a person, a family, a story….and a community that can make a difference.
Please join us as we come together to honour those whose lives have been affected by domestic abuse, and to remember those we have lost.
We will take a short walk together, by candlelight, from the meeting point in Redhill to the Memorial Park, where a new tree has been planted as a symbol of hope, strength, and remembrance.
At the park, there will be a short talk and a moment of reflection.
Afterwards, Florrie’s Café will kindly stay open a little later for anyone who would like to share a warm drink and conversation.
(Open to all genders and all ages)
Please confirm your attendance here.
In helping to set up this series of events, our thanks go to Reigate and Banstead Borough Council, who have helped by providing funding through the Thriving Communities Fund.
Also, a big thank you to the following:
Handpicked Hotels – Nutfield Priory Hotel, who, as Beacon members, have sponsored this event by providing the venue for the Empower Her event. EIDA Beacon members are prominent member organisations within the Employer’s Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA) network that lead by example in supporting employees impacted by domestic abuse.
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council has provided the venue for the breakfast seminar. Rockpool Recruitment for their generous support yet again covering the cost of the pastries, and to Chalk Hills Bakery, Reigate, for reducing the cost of their delicious pastries.
Thank you to Reigate Priory Cricket Club for a small reduction in cost for the venue for the Men’s event, and a huge thank you to Chris & Helen, for your donation covering this.
Thank you to all of our speakers, volunteers, staff and supporters – together we really are stronger in building a safer community for women and girls and therefore a safer community for all.
Notes:
*16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global campaign which runs from 25th November through to the 10th December, highlighting the need to end violence against women and girls.
About ESDAS
ESDAS is an independent charity providing effective services to support survivors of domestic abuse and their children in East Surrey through individual outreach, community engagement and partnerships. Our service is open to any resident or those working within the areas of Reigate and Banstead Borough Council, Mole Valley District Council and Tandridge District Council.