North West Regional College held its first conference focused on ending violence against women and girls at the Strand Road campus. Stakeholders attended, including teaching staff from schools, local council members, health professionals, and community group representatives.

Speakers addressed bystander training and domestic violence with coercive control. A performance titled Wasted by Kat Woods took place. The event ended with a panel discussion.

Gillian Moss, Head of Client Services at the college, stated that the college formed a working group with students and staff to shape attitudes, raise awareness, support victims and survivors, and maintain safe campuses. She noted that the Northern Ireland Executive launched a seven-year Strategic Framework last year as a government priority, backed by an initial 3 million pounds investment for community initiatives.

Moss added that the college must educate, lead, and advocate for safety, respect, and equality. She recognised the work of college colleagues and partners in supporting learners and embedding these values.

Named attendees included Uel Murphy, Strabane Campus Manager; Siobhan Faulkner, Student Services Manager; Shannon Doherty, Safeguarding Manager; Paul Clancy, Governing Body; Annette Palmer, Department for the Economy; Holly Reed, Foyle Women’s Information Network; Charley Cusack, Widening Access and Participation Manager; and Leigh Collins, White Ribbon.