Thank You for Being the Change: #BeTheChange Campaign Comes to a Close

The #BeTheChange bauble campaign has officially come to a close, and organisers have extended their thanks to everyone who took part across the community.

Thousands of individuals, organisations, and local businesses added their names and messages to baubles that became far more than festive decorations. Each one represented a visible and public commitment to ending violence against women and girls.

Together, the campaign demonstrated that meaningful change begins with open conversation, shared responsibility, and collective action.

A Community United Against Violence

Throughout the campaign, baubles were displayed across public spaces, workplaces, and community settings. Each contribution sent a clear message: violence against women and girls has no place in our society.

The initiative encouraged people not only to show support, but also to engage in what many described as a “difficult but necessary conversation”.

This visible show of solidarity helped keep the issue in public focus and reinforced the importance of long-term cultural change.

Council Leadership and Support

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Chair, Cllr Barry McElduff, who officially launched the campaign, praised the scale of engagement and the impact of partnership working.

He said the campaign highlighted the power of collective action and the essential role played by both statutory and voluntary sector partners.

“Every single bauble has represented a commitment to ending violence against women and girls.

While this particular campaign has ended, the vital work continues.”

His message reinforced that awareness campaigns are only one step, and that sustained action must follow.

Funding Now Open: EVAWG Local Change Fund 2026/27

Communities are now being encouraged to turn awareness into action.

Applications are open for the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Local Change Fund 2026/27, which supports projects designed to:

• Prevent violence and abuse
• Challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours
• Address cultural factors that enable violence
• Deliver real, practical support for those affected

Funded initiatives aim to create lasting change for individuals and families who experience harm and abuse every day.

Application deadline:
Wednesday 4 February 2026 at 5.00pm

How to Apply

Full guidance, eligibility criteria, and application details are available online:

 www.fermanaghomagh.com/services/sponsorship-grants-bursaries/grant-aid

Groups across the council district are strongly encouraged to apply and contribute to ongoing efforts to end violence against women and girls.