Ambassadors

These passionate women and men lend a human face and voice to the cause of ending domestic violence — and we’re grateful for their support.

Meet our ambassadors who use their voices and influence to shift perceptions of abuse and support survivors.

 

Image of Sir Patrick Stuart at Refuge's head office.

Sir Patrick Stewart OBE

Ambassador

“As a child I witnessed repeated violence against my mother – but there was nowhere to go for help. The truth is, domestic violence is protected by silence. More women and children, just like my mother and me, will continue to experience abuse unless we all speak out against it.”

Image of Helen Mirren looking directly into the camera

Dame Helen Mirren

Ambassador

“Refuge is an established and experienced charity which has always been at the forefront of understanding and dealing with the terrible outcomes of domestic violence. They have helped countless women and their families in their darkest hour, when it must have seemed as though life would forever be nothing but fear and loneliness. I am proud to be an ambassador of this remarkable charity.”

Image of Cherie Booth looking directly into camera

Cherie Booth QC

Ambassador

“As a young barrister I represented many women who had been brutally beaten by their husbands. Refuge’s work is invaluable to the thousands of women it supports each year. Yet it cannot solve the problem alone. Every one of us must take responsibility for challenging domestic violence.”

Image of Olivia Colman standing up and looking directly into camera

Olivia Colman

Ambassador

“My eyes were opened to the issue of domestic abuse when I portrayed Hannah in Paddy Considine’s film Tyrannosaur. When I was preparing for that role, I became aware of the vital work that Refuge do and gained a greater understanding of what women experiencing abuse go through. It’s been impossible for me to turn away from this widespread issue since then, something that sadly we know will impact 1 in 4 women across England and Wales in their lifetimes.”

Image of Ranvir Singh smiling and looking directly into camera

Ranvir Singh

Ambassador

“As a journalist I know how common domestic abuse is. In England and Wales, one in four women will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime. Throughout my career I have seen how misogyny underpins so much violence against women and girls, and how pervasive domestic abuse is. Refuge’s work, ensuring all women and children can live a life free from abuse and fear is one that strikes a chord with me, it’s a hugely important cause and I’m grateful to be able to work with Refuge to raise awareness and create much-needed change for women and girls.”

Image of Baroness Helena Kennedy looking directly into camera

Helena Kennedy QC

Ambassador

“Throughout my career as a barrister I have come across many issues and incredible charities doing great work for those that need it the most. Violence against women and girls is an issue that has remained at the forefront of my work over the years, and the stats are horrifying”

Image of Billie Piper

Billie Piper

Ambassador

"Refuge provides life changing and lifesaving services for women and their children experiencing domestic abuse. The pandemic really put into focus the dangers for women who were trapped at home with their abusers, and we need to make sure this issue isn’t forgotten about now lockdowns are behind us. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Refuge to help improve understanding, education and awareness of domestic abuse and support their fundraising work which ensures their essential services are able to continue running so that women who need Refuge's support are able to access it."

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Sharon Gaffka

Ambassador

“As a young woman, I’ve seen and experienced just how common the misuse of technology has become, and how it is being used to abuse and harass women. My experience of online harassment and trolling began at the age of fourteen, only to be amplified when I began to have a public profile. Before I became a public figure, I worked in Westminster, and so I have a unique insight into the ways in which policy and practice can better protect women and girls, and how my work as an influencer can help shape that necessary legislative change. Refuge’s work is increasingly important, and I will be standing alongside them to call for action.”

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Alex Scott

Ambassador

"It is an incredible honour to be joining Refuge as an ambassador. I first started working with Refuge following the launch of my book, in which I opened up about my experience of domestic abuse as a child. Since then, I have learned so much more about the scale of domestic abuse in society and the impact sharing your experience can have on fellow survivors. As an ambassador, I want to use my platform and voice to spread awareness of domestic abuse and ensure that women know what support is available to them."

Image of Rosemary Reed

Rosemary Reed

Ambassador

“I am passionate about women and want to do everything I can to help end domestic abuse. My successful career in the entertainment industry has allowed me to build a wealth of connections, which I am looking forward to utilising in my work with Refuge. I look forward to working closely with the Fundraising Team, supporting them in expanding their networks, generating income, and building greater awareness of domestic abuse."