In support of the National Day of Prayer for Survivors of Abuse, the Catholic Diocese of Northampton, in collaboration with Churches Together, is holding a LOUDfence event under the theme “Hope for Survivors – A Journey Towards Healing Where There Has Been Pain”.
This important gathering will take place on Saturday 7th June 2025 at Holy Family Church, 24 Freshwater Close, Luton LU3 3TA. It offers an opportunity for communities to come together in solidarity and compassion for all those affected by abuse, recognising the lasting impact and the need for healing.
What is LOUDfence?
LOUDfence is a survivor-led initiative that encourages people to make their support visible by tying colourful ribbons and written messages to a fence, symbolising solidarity and hope for survivors of abuse. It is a simple yet powerful act of public witness, compassion, and commitment to justice.
The Luton LOUDfence – Hope for Survivors event aims to be a safe, sacred space where survivors can share their stories and find spiritual and emotional support. A mixed team of lay and clergy volunteers—clearly identified by orange badges—will be available to offer a listening ear, alongside the Diocesan Safeguarding Coordinator.
As we prepare for the Jubilee Year 2025, a time of renewal and healing, this event stands as a public sign of the Church’s commitment to acknowledging past wounds and walking together with survivors toward a hopeful future.
Programme for the Day
- 10:00am – Pilgrimage of Hope: Gathering at St Joseph’s Church, Gardenia Avenue and walking in solidarity to Holy Family Church
- 11:00am – Service of Hope: A prayerful service with Bishop David Oakley and Archdeacon Dave Middlebrook (Anglican Archdeacon of Bedford)
- 12:00pm onwards – Main LOUDfence Assembly & Crafting Workshops:
- Local Luton parishes will bring their mini-LOUDfences, joined together to form a single display of support
- LOUDfence Workshops: Opportunities to create ribbons, messages, or crafts. Attendees are encouraged to bring personal items—fabric, paper, ribbons, or symbols of comfort—to contribute
- 12:30pm – Buffet Lunch: Time for informal conversation and reflection
- 1:30pm – Join the Conversation: An open dialogue about support for survivors in the diocese, including contributions from Bishop David Oakley and Diocesan Safeguarding Officer Danielle Dixon. Suggestions for future support initiatives are welcome
- 3:00pm – Closing Prayer
All are welcome to attend. Whether you come to tie a ribbon, offer a prayer, or simply be present in silent support, your presence matters.
Local Parish Involvement
Parishes in Luton are encouraged to create their own mini-LOUDfences before the event, adding ribbons and messages from their communities. These mini-displays will be brought together at Holy Family Church to form a powerful united sign of support for survivors across the town.
Support & Signposting
Help is available for anyone impacted by abuse. A range of organisations offer confidential, specialised support, including:
- MACSAS – 08088 01 03 40 – www.macsas.org.uk
- NAPAC – 0808 801 0331 – napac.org.uk
- Safe Spaces – 0300 303 1056 – safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk
- Samaritans – 116 123 – samaritans.org
- Replenished Life, Survivors Voices, SurvivorsUK, NSPCC, The Survivors Trust, Grief to Grace, and many more (full list available at the event and online).
Let us journey together in hope, truth, and love.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” – John 1:5
For more information, contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Office or visit our Safeguarding page.
