Across the world, March 8th is recognised each year as International Women’s Day. It is a day filled with appreciation, recognition, and messages celebrating women’s achievements. Yet, beyond the flowers and tributes lies a reality that many women continue to face daily—one that calls not only for awareness but also for action.
In the United Kingdom, violence against women remains a significant issue. According to the Crime Survey for England and Wales, more than 1.6 million women experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2024. The issue also goes beyond physical violence. The Office for National Statistics reports that around 739,000 women experienced sexual assault in England and Wales in the year ending March 2025, highlighting just how widespread the problem remains.
These statistics reveal a troubling reality and raise an important question: Where can women turn when they need support?
The United Nations defines violence against women as any act that causes physical, sexual, or psychological harm. This includes threats, coercion, or restricting someone’s freedom, whether in public spaces or within the home.
However, abuse does not always leave visible marks. It can appear as humiliating words, constant criticism, controlling behaviour, financial pressure, or emotional manipulation. These experiences may not always be recognised immediately, yet they can leave deep and lasting emotional scars.
In many cases, the pain comes from the people closest to us.
Some daughters face emotional oppression at home. Mothers may feel hurt by harsh or dismissive words. Wives may find themselves financially controlled. Many women also experience a deep sense of isolation, even when surrounded by others.
Although these struggles are often silent, that does not make them any less real.
In response to these realities, Universal Churches across the UK will hold a special Day of “Inner Healing for Women” this Sunday, 8th March.
This meeting is designed for those who carry emotional scars from trauma, abuse, or painful experiences.
When people hear the word “abuse,” many think only of physical harm. But abuse can also be psychological, economic, or sexual, and it does not occur only between couples. For this reason, the invitation is open to any woman who feels emotionally wounded, whether within a relationship, the family, or another environment. The purpose is not to assign blame, but to offer support and care to women who may feel hurt, overlooked, or alone.
This invitation is inspired by a biblical moment in Luke 13:10–17, where Jesus speaks to a woman who had been suffering for 18 years and tells her, “…Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.”
This serves as a reminder that God sees those who are hurting, even when others overlook them. We aim to provide a welcoming environment where women feel safe, heard, and valued. More than a service, the day of “Inner Healing for Women” is intended to be a moment of emotional and spiritual restoration.
On International Women’s Day, the message goes beyond celebration. That’s why we invite all women to join us, knowing that what matters most is not only recognition but also the chance to heal, regain strength, and move forward no longer burdened by pain but strengthened by faith.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be supported, encouraged, and renewed.
Event: Inner Healing for Women
Day and time: Sunday, 8th March at 10am (also at 7:30am)
Location: Your local Universal Church
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