The Mothers' Union (MU) branch for Blackburn Diocese is organising a ‘powerful and moving’ new exhibition to bring the often-hidden issue of domestic abuse into the light. 

The exhibition will have its first outing next week.

After the County’s MU set up a partnership with Women's Aid last year, a special service was subsequently held at Blackburn Cathedral on the 'International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women' (November 25, 2022).  

This year, Blackburn Diocese MU is organising the new Exhibition, entitled 'The Souls of our Shoes', at Lancaster Priory from September 11-28. In a few months, immediately following the 2023 'International Day' which is on November 25, the exhibition (with some revised content) will then move to St Thomas' Church in Garstang from November 26-30.  

Both exhibitions are free, run from 10am-4pm each day and there is no need to book; just turn up. 

‘The Souls of our Shoes’ is based on an original idea from the Scottish Interfaith Group on Domestic Abuse. 

Gill Ireland, President of the Blackburn Diocese branch of Mothers' Union, said today: "Using words from survivors of domestic abuse, linked with representative pairs of shoes, the exhibition is a powerful and moving experience.  

“We want to encourage MU members, clergy and church members, as well as the general public all across Lancashire, to take the time to visit. 

"In setting up this event we hope to raise awareness of domestic abuse and its impact in our communities.

"Meanwhile, after its appearances at Lancaster Priory and St Thomas, Garstang, we hope to make it available in other churches across the diocese in the future."  

• Download a poster about the exhibition here.  

Ronnie Semley, September 2023