Competition for Domestic Abuse Survivors Launches
‘Catharsis: Competition for Domestic Abuse Survivors’ is a creative competition inviting survivors of domestic abuse to share their journeys through poetry, art or photography. This initiative offers a safe and empowering space to transform pain into power and experience healing through creativity.
Too often, the voices of survivors are silenced by fear, stigma or trauma. ‘Catharsis’ exists to change that. Through art, survivors are invited to reclaim their narratives on their own terms – whether that means speaking boldly, quietly, symbolically, or anonymously. Every story is valid. Every expression matters.
The competition is open for entries until 29 January 2027.
‘Catharsis’ is delivered in conjunction with:
Living Keys
Peterborough Women’s Aid
Peterborough City Council
Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Domestic Abuse & Sexual Violence Partnership
Together, these organisations are committed to supporting survivors and amplifying their voices in safe, ethical and empowering ways.
Why take part?
By entering ‘Catharsis’, you will have the opportunity to:
Share your story on your own terms
Reclaim your voice through creative expression
Help raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding domestic abuse
Be considered for publication in an upcoming book release
All welcome to enter - no age, gender, experience or location restrictions.
How to submit
Poetry and digital artwork should be emailed to: charis@livingkeys.co.uk
Physical artwork can be hand-delivered to:
Peterborough Women’s Aid, Anne’s House, 32–34 Cromwell Road, Peterborough PE1 2EA
The competition is open for entries until 29 January 2027.
Please include the following with your submission:
The title of your piece
Your contact details
How to credit your work - your name, psuedonym or anonymous
Please note:
A maximum of 5 items per person can be entered.
We are unable to accept previously published work.
Any overly explicit or graphic work may not be exhibitable
All submissions are handled with confidentiality, respect and care.
Support is available
If creating or submitting your work brings up difficult emotions, support is available. You are encouraged to contact Living Keys or Peterborough Women’s Aid for guidance or further assistance at any point in your journey.
Your story matters. Your voice deserves to be heard.