University of Bolton: Student's domestic abuse campaign

University of Bolton graphic design student Matt Wilkins helped launch the poster campaign in May, with red flag symbols featuring prominently on many of the materials.

These were displayed on posters and stickers, some of which featured on walls and bathrooms, to help raise people’s interest.

Matt said: “’Red flags’ is a widely known metaphor for real issues in people’s relationships which often are pushed aside.

One of the posters designed by Matt Wilkins (Image: University of Bolton)

“The concept was meant to illustrate, that we as people are quick to ignore these so called ‘red flags’ for one reason or another.

“This is the core theme of this campaign and I hope that it is eye opening enough for some people to reach out and get help.”

The campaign officially launched on the same day as a domestic abuse symposium for students featuring stalls and presentations from the Endeavour charity.

CEO Jill Caldwell said: “Any campaign to raise awareness is fantastic – the more awareness there is about domestic abuse and how to deal with concerns, the better.

“We get a lot of referrals from healthcare professionals, so being able to talk to students in this area is hugely important.”

Jill Caldwell and Linda Charnock from Endeavour with University of Bolton senior lecturer Sheryl Halliday (Image: University of Bolton)

The University’s student services team supported the project and delivery of the brief to graphic design students, to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the support services available.

The students then designed a suite of campaign materials which were reviewed by senior University staff.

Head of student services Matt Dillon said: “Reports of domestic abuse at the university remain low.

"However, it is a fact that reports have increased here as they have all across the UK, and the student services team has introduced a range of new measures and support to address concerns following increased prevalence of domestic abuse, particularly during the pandemic.

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“This campaign is aimed at keeping the issue of domestic abuse and the wealth of support available firmly at the forefront of our students’ minds.

“The panel was particularly impressed with the professionalism demonstrated by all students in their approach to the brief and with all the conceptual designs.

“Matt’s campaign stood out amongst the entries and it has certainly been effective as we have had a number of referrals as a direct result of the campaign.”