Brave Belfast Cailíní: Being A Girl’s Girl Through Art

In Northern Ireland, violence against women and girls is a pervasive issue. A 2023 report revealed that nearly 98% of women surveyed had experienced some form of violence or abuse in their lifetime, with 70% encountering it in the past year. Alarmingly, half of these women had experienced violence before the age of 11. Domestic abuse statistics further highlight the severity of the problem, with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) reporting over 33,000 domestic abuse incidents in the year ending June 2022 – the highest on record. Women disproportionately bear the brunt, making up 69% of those affected in 2020/21. These figures underline the urgent need for initiatives like Brave Belfast Cailíní.

The campaign is a collaboration between NSPCC Northern Ireland, Footprints Women’s Centre, and young women aged 12-16. Together, they are developing resources to define what a healthy relationship looks like and explore how young women and girls (or cailíní) can support each other to build a safer, healthier future.

Healthy relationships are vital for everyone, yet many young people are unsure of what they should look like. This campaign centres young women as the experts of their own experiences, ensuring their voices are at the heart of creating change. By working with young people, Brave Belfast Cailíní helps to foster mutual support and promote a culture where every girl feels valued and respected.

This exhibition celebrates their powerful messages, showcasing artwork and ideas from the young women involved. It highlights how being a “girl’s girl” – supporting and uplifting one another – can transform the lives of young women and girls across Northern Ireland. Visitors will also have the opportunity to create their own artwork, leaving messages of encouragement for young women and girls in the city. Additionally, the exhibition offers information on how to get involved in the campaign and join the movement to build healthier relationships for everyone.

By promoting healthy relationships and addressing issues like consent and boundaries, Brave Belfast Cailíní aims to challenge the societal norms that perpetuate violence against women and girls. The campaign also aligns with wider efforts to tackle gender-based violence in Northern Ireland, such as Stormont’s Strategy to End Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG), which recognises the need for a comprehensive response to this widespread issue.

At its core, this campaign is about more than just education – it’s about empowering young women and girls to be agents of change in their own lives and communities. It’s about fostering solidarity, resilience, and the confidence to stand up against unhealthy behaviours. Together, we can create a society where every girl feels supported, understood, and safe.

Part of Imagine! Belfast Festival of Ideas & Politics>>