WMRSASC Highlights Abuse and Violence Awareness Week with Art

West Mercia Rape Support asked for creative work for Sexual Abuse and Violence Awareness Week, which ended Sunday, February 9. They invited past and present clients, as well as supporters, to participate.

The charity helps anyone over age five in Worcestershire and Herefordshire. The theme was “what makes you feel empowered?”. They shared the work on Facebook and Instagram during the week.

Lydia Johnson, who leads counseling at WMRSASC in Worcester, felt privileged to see the submitted work. The art and writing proved very powerful and moving.

Art and writing became a lifeline for some people, giving them a way to explore their abuse. Survivors met in groups for peer support and found their voice using crafts and writing. Painting also helped alongside others with similar experiences.

Some clients used writing during counseling to process feelings. Others used art to show their experience, which helped them deal with the justice system.

Sexual violence takes away people’s power, often leaving victims feeling like they lack a voice and control. WMRSASC helps people reclaim their power by enabling decisions about the support they receive. People regain their control this way.

The awareness week is a national event that helps coordinate violence campaigns. It also sheds light on an often ignored subject.

Awareness of sexual violence grew recently, following the #MeToo movement worldwide. People began to understand the impact of violence.

Police recorded 69,958 rape reports between 2023 and 2024. Only 2.7 percent of these reports faced charges.