Women's Listening Circle

NPCC award-winning listening circles, launched by DCS Dee Perkins and currently led by DCS Zara Brown, are co-hosted by NINE RED Presents… (CIC) and are part of the Butterflies in Shades of Grey Programme. (Click to download brochure)

These circles are dedicated to providing a safe space for women who may have been victims of crime or may have directly or indirectly experienced domestic and sexual violence, as well as those affected by intersectional discrimination, such as racist sexism and sexist racism.

Participants are encouraged to share their stories with statutory agents, listen to others, and foster a supportive community that validates their experiences and promotes healing.

- May 4th – Dr. Nazia Khanum OBE, DL, Chairperson of UNA Luton and Director of Equality in Diversity

- June 1st – Naz Knight LL.B (Hons), CEO and Co-founder of Queen’s Award Winning NINE RED Presents (CIC), Poetry Champion for Bedfordshire, Poet in Residence at Luton Town Football Club: - Narrative Psychology and Poetry Therapy

- July 6th – “Crowning Glory: The Power of African Hair, Identity, and Resilience Amid Rising Anti-Black Sentiment” This session will explore the cultural significance of African and Caribbean hair as a symbol of heritage and empowerment, while also addressing the unique challenges Black women face in Luton—particularly in light of increasing anti-Black sentiment, including that which is sometimes perpetuated within immigrant and marginalised communities.

Main Discussion Question: How does the cultural significance of African hair empower Black women, and what are the impacts of rising anti-Black sentiment—including from within immigrant communities—on daily life and identity in Luton?” We aim to use this discussion to highlight lived experiences, raise awareness, and explore community-driven solutions.

- August 3rd – Exploring DA, Misogyny, and Misogynoir discussion led by Bedordshire Police.

Followed by:

The Window and the Mirrors with Helen Nellis CVO CStJ, retired HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. Who has used her position to empower women of all backgrounds, providing a window into a world that we could mirror.

- September 7th -

- October 5th – Imelda Knight CQSW BsC (Hons): - Women, Grief, and childbearing health

- November 2nd

- December 7th – 16 Days of Action Installation.

"Our House" was commissioned by the Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership and toured Bedfordshire during the 16 Days of Action campaign on domestic abuse awareness in 2015 and 2019. It features a giant advent calendar house, with each window unveiling a positive survivor's story through poetry or art. This installation serves as a powerful engagement tool and has resonated deeply with audiences.

This 16 Days of Action starts on 25th November and runs until the 10th December and the installation “Our House” will be on display at Wardown House Museum and Gallery for the 16 Days.

The Women’s Listening Circle on December 7th will be part of the 16 Days of Action and will be co-hosted by DI Nash Hussain.