CEA Quarterly Update

Connection, Courage and Community in Action
As we step into 2026, we’re taking a moment to celebrate a powerful and purposeful quarter at CEA — one that brought people together, amplified survivor voices, and reminded us why connection sits at the heart of everything we do.

From opening our doors to service users and Board members, to meeting families in the community, to investing in both survivor and staff wellbeing, the final months of 2025 were full of moments that mattered.

Meet the Board Day – When Voices Truly Matter
On the 21st of November 2025, our office was filled with something truly special. Service users joined us for our Meet the Board Day, creating a space where lived experience took centre stage.

Board members and the Chair met directly with service users, listened to their stories, and heard first-hand what CEA’s support has meant during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. One of the most moving outcomes was the creation of a Tree of Hope adorned with powerful quotes and reflections from adults and children alike. Each message spoke of safety regained, confidence rebuilt, and hope restored.

It was a day that reminded us: when we listen, services grow stronger

16 Days of Action – Taking the Message into the Community
As part of the 16 Days of Action, we stepped out into the community at the Family Fun Day at St Xavier’s Church on 28 November 2025.

With our information stall at the heart of the event, the team engaged families, answered questions, and shared vital information about domestic abuse support. Just as importantly, the day allowed us to strengthen relationships with partner agencies working side by side to raise awareness and show that support is accessible, visible and local.

These moments matter. They break down stigma, start conversations, and help people know they’re not alone.

Festive Care with Dignity at Its Core
The festive season can be especially difficult for those affected by abuse, particularly when finances are tight. In response, the team put together welfare packs for adults attending our Christmas party, with a focus on kindness, care and dignity.

For many, this was one of the few times they received something just for themselves. A simple but powerful reminder that they are seen, valued and worthy of care.

Empowerment Beyond the Conversation
Support doesn’t stop at advocacy. This quarter, we made positive links with Krav Maga and Jujitsu providers, opening new opportunities for service users to reconnect with their strength, confidence and physical wellbeing.

These activities offer more than exercise, they support empowerment, choice and self-belief, helping individuals rebuild trust in their own abilities.

Learning That Strengthens Practice
Our commitment to learning continues. This quarter, a member of the team completed SafeLives training on Responding to Older People Affected by Domestic Abuse, strengthening our ability to support an often-overlooked group and ensuring our service remains inclusive, responsive and informed.

Every new skill is another step towards safer, more effective support.

Caring for the People Who Care
Looking ahead, we’re excited for our Staff Away Day on 28 January 2026, a dedicated day focused on wellbeing, reflection and team connection.

This time away from daily pressures allows staff to pause, reset and reconnect with one another. Supporting staff wellbeing isn’t a luxury; it’s essential to sustaining compassionate, trauma-informed practice for the people who rely on us.

Why This Work Matters — Now More Than Ever
National conversations around domestic abuse continue to highlight the ongoing need for specialist services. From increased awareness of Clare’s Law to greater understanding of coercive control and lifelong impacts of abuse, the relevance of our work has never been clearer.

At CEA, we remain committed to early intervention, partnership working and survivor-led support because safety, dignity and hope should never be out of reach.

Looking Forward with Purpose
As we move into 2026, we do so energised, reflective and deeply motivated. The past quarter has shown the power of listening, the strength of community, and the impact of working together with compassion and intent.

Get Involved
Whether you’re a partner agency, a supporter, or a member of the community, there are many ways to stand alongside CEA. Visit our website, follow us on social media, or get in touch to learn more about our work and upcoming events. Together, we can continue building safer communities and brighter futures.

A Reflection from the Children & Young People’s Team
For the Children & Young People’s Team, the final quarter of 2025 was centred on consistency, connection and advocacy — particularly during a time of year that can be challenging for many families affected by domestic abuse.

Supporting Children Through the Festive Season
While our Christmas party was a highlight for many children, a significant amount of work took place behind the scenes to ensure families felt supported throughout the festive period.

This included emotional check-ins, practical support and maintaining trusted relationships during a time when routines are disrupted and anxieties can increase. The focus remained on ensuring no child felt forgotten or unsafe.

Raising Awareness for Children’s Experiences
In November, we took part in the three-legged walk at The Kelpies in support of Children in Need, alongside a radio interview with Judith Ralston. This helped raise awareness of the impact of domestic abuse on children and young people and highlighted the importance of specialist services tailored to their needs.

Public engagement plays a key role in challenging misconceptions and ensuring children’s experiences are recognised and understood.

Trauma-Informed Practice in Action
Members of the team attended enhanced trauma training this quarter, strengthening understanding of how trauma can present in children’s emotions, behaviour and relationships.

This learning directly informs our day-to-day practice, ensuring responses remain safe, compassionate and attuned to each child’s individual experience.

Empowering Young People Through Education
A key area of work this quarter involved meeting with high school students to support their Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) presentations. These sessions created space for young people to explore issues of domestic abuse, inequality and social responsibility, while developing confidence in advocacy and presentation skills.

Early education and honest conversations are vital in building safer futures.

Supporting the Team
Working with children and young people affected by abuse is emotionally demanding. Throughout the quarter, there was a continued focus on collaboration, reflection and mutual support within the team, recognising that staff wellbeing is essential to delivering safe, consistent support.

Looking Ahead
As we move into 2026, the Children & Young People’s Team remains committed to amplifying children’s voices, strengthening safety and supporting recovery through trusted relationships and trauma-informed care.