PCC and his deputy praise Bedfordshire projects driving change during 16 Days of Action

Police and Crime Commissioner John Tizard and Deputy PCC Umme Ali visited Wardown House in Luton to see first-hand an innovative creative arts project funded by their Grassroots Innovation Fund, which looks at tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence as part of the national 16 Days of Action campaign. 

The project, ‘Our House: Behind Closed Doors’, created by Nine Red Presents (CIC), uses art and technology to shine a light on the hidden impact of domestic abuse and sexual violence.  

The ‘advent calendar’ style installation features QR codes placed behind doors and windows, linking visitors to a dedicated online hub with survivor poetry, testimonies, practical advice, and information about local support services. 

Alongside this, Nine Red is delivering a series of live workshops across Bedfordshire in partnership with the Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership (BDAP). These sessions combine poetry, light, sound, art therapy, and mentoring to empower survivors and educate communities.  

Workshops are designed for individuals affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence, women, children, minority ethnic groups, and the wider community. 

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Umme Ali said: “This project is a powerful example of creativity driving social change. It gives survivors a voice, challenges stigma, and helps communities understand the realities of domestic abuse. 

“I am proud that through our Grassroots Innovation Fund we are supporting Nine Red Presents (CIC) and other organisations to deliver meaningful work during the 16 Days of Action and beyond.” 

Debra Knight, CEO of Nine Red said:

“Our House: Behind Closed Doors was created so no one has to carry their story alone. Having the PCC and Deputy PCC walk through the space and really listen to survivors felt like a genuine commitment to change, not just a photo opportunity.

"Nine Red is supporting the 16 Days because domestic and sexual abuse are still happening every day in our communities, often in silence, and creativity can open doors that conversations alone cannot. The hope is that someone who encounters this work will feel less alone, more able to reach out for support, or more confident to stand beside someone living with abuse.”

More than 40 community-led projects across Bedfordshire have been awarded funding through the PCC’s Grassroots Innovation Fund, following an overwhelming response from local groups and charities including several focused on domestic abuse and sexual violence.  

Alongside Nine Red, the Police and Crime Commissioner is also funding the following organisations: 

• Samson’s Academy delivering StrongHER, a programme of combat and self-defence workshops designed to empower women and girls from marginalised communities. The sessions build confidence, promote safety, and strengthen social connections, while raising awareness of personal safety, early signs of abuse, and local safeguarding support. 

• Home-Start Bedfordshire, who are running digital campaign, Mums the Word, to raise awareness of domestic abuse during pregnancy and encourage reporting, aiming to reach over 50,000 women online. 

• Stepping Stones, delivering Let’s Keep Going. Trauma-informed support to vulnerable women, empowering clients by teaching essential self-care and self-regulation skills while fostering connections and activities within the community.  

• Volunteer It Yourself (VIY), supporting Luton Women’s Aid. Experienced trades professionals will work with young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) to redecorate a Women’s Aid house in Luton, combining practical skills with community impact. 

These projects, alongside Nine Red’s installation, form part of a wider effort to raise awareness, empower survivors, and strengthen community resilience during the 16 Days of Action and beyond. 

For more information about Nine Red Presents (CIC) visit their website.   

More information on how to get support, visit the Bedfordshire Police website