PSNI and Derry schools unite to launch 'Our Modern Troubles' domestic abuse resource

Youth project about domestic abuse a 'meaningful and innovative project'

A book designed to raise awareness of domestic abuse among young people has been described as ‘truly remarkable’ and will be a ‘beneficial resource for everyone’.

Our Modern Troubles – The Storm Before The Calm has been developed by ‘incredibly talented and vibrant young minds’ from a number of different schools across the Derry City & Strabane district Council area.

It tells the story of two young people, both fictional characters, who experience domestic abuse - physical, verbal, psychological, emotional and sexual violence – in their relationships, and how, with the help of family, friends, and police, they are supported and helped. 

Derry City & Strabane Chief Inspector Cherith Craig, was involved in the project from the outset.

“Working with these incredibly talented and vibrant young minds has been an amazing experience,” says Chief Inspector Craig.

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“They’ve developed a story about domestic abuse and how it impacts people their age, which is why it was so important the story is told the way they want it.” 

Teenagers aged between 14 and 17 worked through a series of evening workshops to develop the storyline and design the comic book.

Speaking after completion of the project, one of the students involved said the comic book "uses modern language for younger readers to help them understand and relate to the themes within, and is something a lot of people go through". Other students said they 'learned about who to go to about (domestic) violence and what to do in that situation and I think it’s a good message to share in schools".

Another student said: “This comic book really highlights the stuff we need to talk about.”

Helping the students navigate the creative process were local police from Derry City & Strabane, including officers from the Ending Violence Against Women And Girls Impact Team, Revolve Comics and Foyle Women’s Aid.

Chief Inspector Craig said: “The students are very proud of what they have achieved and, as a Police Service, it has been a privilege to have worked alongside them. This book raises awareness of domestic abuse and working to end violence against women and girls, which is a policing priority. It shows what an unhealthy relationship can look like in young relationships. Importantly, it sends a message that help and support is available and that if you experience domestic abuse, it is never your fault; you are not alone.

“Thank you to the young people involved and everyone who gave up their time and provided guidance and input. The hope is this comic book will empower everyone who reads it and, that, ultimately it makes a difference." 

Danny McLaughlin of Revolve Comics, who facilitated the workshops and production of the comic book, said: "It’s been amazing working with the young people, who are so creative, and working with PSNI and the schools. It’s been wonderful getting so much creative talent together to develop a story. It’s been a truly remarkable project and will be such a beneficial resource for everyone.”

Ramel Flores from Foyle Women’s Aid, was involved and facilitated the workshops, said: “It’s fantastic to see young people connect from around the city, from different backgrounds, different schools, and be able to discuss hard topics that they wouldn’t normally be able to, but especially using this form of art it is very much within that generation.”  

The project was funded by NI Executive’s Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC), and Derry & Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP). 6,000 copies have been printed, available for distribution in local schools and youth clubs. It will also be available online. Included in the comic book are links to agencies offering information and advice in relation to where to seek help if you are experiencing domestic abuse.

Justice Minister Naomi Long, said: “I want to commend the young people who have created this comic, as well as the teachers, facilitators, the PSNI, Women’s Aid, PCSP and all of the partners who have supported them. 

“This work has been made possible through funding from the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, which invests in early intervention and prevention approaches that reduce harm, protect young people and help build safer communities. 

“This project shines a light on hidden harms, including coercive control and domestic abuse, in a way that is accessible, relatable and grounded in the lived realities of young people. Projects like this demonstrate the real value of education and community-led prevention and highlight how creative approaches can open up vital conversations that too often remain unseen or unspoken.” 

Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District, Councillor Ruairí McHugh said: “I want to commend the young people involved in creating the comic book. Their honesty, creativity and courage in addressing such a difficult topic is truly inspiring. This comic book is a fantastic educational resource that shows how domestic abuse affects everyone, including young people, and that no one should ever feel they have to face it alone.

“The voices of these young creators will undoubtedly spark conversations, increase awareness, and help others recognise the signs of unhealthy relationships. As a Council, we are proud to support initiatives that empower young people and contribute to safer, more compassionate communities. I want to thank everyone involved for bringing this important project to life.”

PCSP Chair, Alderman Keith Kerrigan said: “The Policing and Community Safety Partnership is extremely proud to have supported this meaningful and innovative project. The young people who produced this comic have tackled a sensitive and complex issue with maturity, insight and creativity well beyond their years.

“Domestic abuse, whether physical, emotional, psychological or digital, remains a serious concern within our community. I want to congratulate every participant and partner organisation involved. Their combined effort has produced a powerful resource that will help young people understand that support is available, and that they should never hesitate to seek help.”

The comic book project was launched in The Guildhall in the city on Tuesday, March 31. 

During the launch, funded by Derry City & Strabane District Council, a video featuring some of those involved in the project was also shown and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/04mH44I6nik. 

During the launch event on Tuesday, First Minister Michelle O’Neill addressed the audience by video.

Year 10 students from St Cecilia’s College, directed by Head of Drama Department Ms Greta McTague, performed Whispers, a play written by Derry City & Strabane Constable Josie Crawford, about domestic abuse and, in particular, coercive control. 

The following schools were involved in the project: St. Mary’s College, St Cecilia’s College, Thornhill College, Oakgrove Integrated College, Foyle College, Lumen Christie College, St Joseph’s College, St. Patrick’s and St. Brigid’s College, Claudy, and The Churches Trust. The students were each presented with certificates by Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton. 

Music was provided by St. Mary’s College Senior School Orchestra. Music was also provided by singers Anne Marie Hickey (St Eugene’s Cathedral) and Roisin Rice, Vice Principal of St Mary’s College. 

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Among those present was NI Justice Minister Naomi Long; Junior Executive Office Joanne Bunting; Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District, Councillor Ruairí McHugh; Chief Executive Officer of Foyle Women’s Aid, Marie Brown; Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton, Chair of the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB) Mukesh Sharma, Deputy Mayor Niree McMorris; Derry & Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Chair, Alderman Keith Kerrigan; and Eamon McGinley, Community Restorative Justice Ireland.