Ellie Harrison rambles in support of Women’s Aid ABCLN to highlight the rise in domestic abuse over the course of the pandemic.
TV presenter Ellie Harrison has embarked on a special Countryfile Ramble to raise awareness and fundraise for BBC Children in Need’s 2021 Appeal. Whilst on her ramble, Ellie met three women from Women’s Aid ABCLN to discuss the rise of domestic abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating impact it has had on children, young people and their families.
Ellie Harrison’s Countryfile Ramble in support of Women’s Aid ABCLN and BBC Children in Need took place at Binevenagh Mountain Walk with stunning views across the Roe Valley, Lough Foyle and Inishowen.
During her ramble, Ellie spoke with Fran, Area Manager at Women’s Aid ABCLN, to hear more about the vital support on offer to vulnerable women, their children and families whom have been/are subjected to domestic abuse and how funding from BBC Children in Need enables them to provide assistance to those affected by domestic abuse.
Ellie also heard from two young women, who remained anonymous, sharing their own personal experiences of living through the trauma of domestic abuse as children whilst located in rural and isolated communities. The two women also talk to Ellie about the importance of specialist support for young people who are so often the hidden victims, a truly courageous and important conversation shining much-needed light on an unsettling issue.
BBC Children in Need currently supports Women’s Aid ABCLN to fund two project workers who support children and young people who have experienced domestic abuse in their homes. The one-to-one support over a period of time creates a safe and caring environment for young people to overcome their deeply traumatic experiences.
Fran, Area Manager at Women’s Aid ABCLN said “It’s incredible to be part of this year’s Countryfile Ramble for BBC Children in Need. It’s so important we raise awareness around the one-to-one support we offer to help survivors feel safe and cared for after living through a deeply traumatic experience. We are so grateful for the funding we receive which enables us to offer this vital support and honoured to be part of the 2021 fundraising Appeal.”
The public are encouraged to get involved by taking part in their own sponsored rambles to help change the lives of disadvantaged children and young people here in Northern Ireland. Full details on how to get involved are available at bbc.co.uk/countryfile.
Watch clip here: Countryfile Rambles for BBC Children in Need
The Countryfile Ramble for BBC Children in Need featuring Women’s Aid ABCLN was broadcast on BBC One, Sunday 24th October and is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.