NSPCC launches domestic abuse campaign in Blackburn

The Breakthrough campaign began with theatre performances and workshops in schools across Blackburn with Darwen.

The play, titled 'It’s Not Love,' was developed by York St John University’s performance department and the NSPCC.

It explores 'challenging themes around domestic violence' through drama and workshops.

The play is aimed at students in years seven to nine and follows four characters dealing with domestic abuse within families, friendships, and intimate partner relationships.

Amy Holland, NSPCC local campaigns officer, said: "The first performances of It’s Not Love across Blackburn have gone really well, especially the group Q&A sessions.

"The young people all shared some really thoughtful responses as well as highlighting key terms such as grooming and gaslighting."

It’s Not Love follows four characters negotiating domestic abuse within families, between friends and in intimate partner relationships (Image: Supplied)

The Wish Centre, a domestic abuse charity, is supporting the campaign.

It helped 659 young people aged six to 19 through dedicated programmes in 2023/24.

Alison Partington, children and young people’s programmes coordinator at The Wish Centre in Blackburn, said: "We really want to spread the word further so that all young people in Blackburn with Darwen know what domestic abuse is and know how to get help.

"The Breakthrough campaign is an opportunity for us to get other agencies on board and create a big impact."

Councillor Julie Gunn, deputy leader and executive member for children, young people and education at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "The Breakthrough campaign is a really important new campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse.

"NSPCC statistics show a real need to make sure children and young people are protected and know of support available to them.

"Art and theatre are a great way of getting the message across and I hope the tour continues to be a success."

Jules Dorey Richmond, senior theatre lecturer at York St John University, added: “It fantastic to know the tour is going so well.

"Working collaboratively on such an important topic has so many benefits and helps us reach more and more young people.”