Hexham Abbey is to hold Holy Communion to remember the victims of domestic homicide, and honour all victims of domestic abuse.

The service is called 'White Ribbon Sunday' and will be on Sunday 7 November at 10am.

The Archbishop of York, the Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell will be attending the service as a guest speaker, Viv Frost from White Ribbon UK will read the Gospel, and female survivors will speak during the service.

This will be followed by a Question and Answer session which will further explore the issues raised.

The Archbishop of York said: “I’m grateful to be able to take part in this service to mark White Ribbon Sunday. Domestic abuse is so often hidden and misunderstood.

“It’s important to have the opportunity to pray, reflect and remember all who have died as a result of this and all those who suffer today in violent and abusive relationships. Together we can stand up and be counted, refuse to excuse, condone or remain silent about domestic abuse.”

Assistant Curate at Hexham Abbey, the Revd Elaine Ryder said: “We hope that this service and the question and answer session which follows it will raise awareness of the important work being done nationwide to change the cultures that lead to violence both inside and outside the home.

“Survivors will speak during the service, which will be followed by a question and answer session organised by White Ribbon UK, a charity which engages communities nationwide in its mission to end violence on our streets and in the nation’s homes.

“We very much look forward to welcoming people of all faiths and none to the service and the Q&A session, and helping to raise awareness of how we can all play our part in challenging the attitudes and narratives which lead to violence.”

The event is in collaboration with the AAFDA (who advocate for the families of domestic abuse victims) and Northumberland Domestic Abuse Services.

To learn more about the event, please contact connect@whiteribbonsunday.org