Voices of Strength spotlighted by Broxtowe Women’s Project exhibition

Featuring written responses from survivors to Jayne Jackson’s photographic series, Asking For It (Opens in a new window), the exhibition emphasises the importance of challenging silence and speaking up. A virtual reality version of Jayne's Asking for It is available to view online (Opens in a new window).

Portraits of the participants, taken by Jayne at the creative writing sessions, also form part of the display.

These responses and Jayne’s work are paired with select pieces from local White Ribbon backed project, Nottingham Speaks Up, which encourages us all, particularly men, to challenge sexist and harmful behaviour towards women and girls.

Broxtowe Women’s Project’s exhibition is a compelling reminder that to create change, we must call out the smallest of everyday actions like sexist ‘jokes’, catcalling or staring that are so often met with silence.

Alice Bates, Development Officer at Broxtowe Women’s Project said, “This exhibition reflects what happens when women are supported to share their stories in safe, creative spaces. Voices of Strength brings together individual experiences that, when shared collectively, become a powerful statement about survival, solidarity and change.

“We’re proud to see this work shared at the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, where we hope it will reach new audiences, spark important conversations and encourage visitors leave with a deeper understanding of the strength it takes to speak up.”

Portfolio Holder for Health and Leisure, Councillor Teresa Cullen, said, “Broxtowe Women’s Project and Jayne have done a brilliant job at portraying survivors’ stories in a creative and compelling way. Though presented wonderfully, the exhibition highlights that there is still work to do in removing violence against women and girls from society.

“We’re so proud to have such a great working relationship between the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum and our neighbours at Broxtowe Women’s Project, who carry out such important and incredible work right across the Borough. We look forward to continuing this on future projects.”

Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Councillor Gabrielle Bunn, added, "I'm proud that Broxtowe Council is providing a platform for this important exhibition, which foregrounds the voices and experiences of survivors of abuse that are often hidden behind closed doors. It highlights our commitment to making our communities are safe space for our women and girls, aligning with Broxtowe's other broader initiatives around domestic abuse and gender-based violence, such as our White Ribbon accreditation and work with organisations like Broxtowe Women’s Project.

"This exhibition is a stark reminder that we all have a crucial part to play in eradicating domestic abuse against women and girls by challenging inappropriate behaviour and supporting survivors. I encourage everyone to try and view Voices of Strength to grow their understanding of how difficult it is for survivors to speak up, and how powerful their words truly are.”

Voices of Strength is available to view for free in the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum’s gallery from Thursday 22 January – Saturday 28 February during the museum’s opening hours 10:00am – 4:00pm, Thursday – Saturday.

The D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is where this literary legend was born on 11 September 1885. Only 30 minutes from Nottingham city centre, the museum is a must see for fans of literature, and for those wanting to delve deeper into Nottingham’s literary heritage.

Step back in time to experience the traditional Victorian wash house, see the parlour; a room only for special guests, and have a wander around the parental and other bedrooms. The museum’s permanent exhibition features items from Lawrence’s family and even paintings created by the author himself.

Find out more about what’s on and plan your visit on the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum webpage.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is providing £25.17 million of funding for local investment across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 2025/26. This funding, distributed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), aims to boost pride in place and increase life chances in the region. The investment will focus on supporting communities and businesses, as well as developing skills for individuals.

Broxtowe Borough Council has been allocated a total of £1,056,720 in 2025/26. Activity funded includes local business and skills support and a set of community projects.