06:00, 08 March 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
As part of our charity film spotlight series, we’re celebrating powerful storytelling that raises awareness and drives positive change. For our first feature – and in recognition of International Women’s Day – we’re highlighting an impactful new film from the domestic abuse charity Refuge.
The film shines a light on the realities many women face behind closed doors, while also pointing to the vital support available and the life-changing work Refuge delivers every single day.
A seemingly picture-perfect house tour takes an unexpected turn in a striking new film released by Refuge ahead of International Women’s Day.
At first, the video feels familiar – the kind of polished property tour you might scroll past on social media. Actor Fizz Waller plays an upbeat estate agent named Kate, enthusiastically showing viewers around a bright three-bedroom family home.
But as the tour unfolds, the comments begin to hint at a deeper story.
Admiring the kitchen cupboards, Kate cheerfully points out:
“These beautiful units are actually soft-close and lockable – perfect storage space for your partner to confiscate things that matter to you, like your phone. Even your medication.”
Gradually, ordinary household features – a smart thermostat controlled remotely, a missing en-suite door and a deep bath “perfect for a long soak” – take on a more serious meaning. The film cleverly reveals how coercive control, technology-facilitated abuse and violence can hide in plain sight within the home.
While the message is powerful, the purpose is clear: to help more people recognise the signs of abuse and know that help is available.
The film forms part of Refuge’s ‘Home Is Where the Hurt Is’ campaign, developed with creative consultancy Revolt. Directed by Bonnie MacRae and produced by Spindle, the project was created by a majority-female crew – a fitting collaboration for a campaign launching around International Women’s Day.
By the end of the film, the tone shifts as Kate addresses the camera directly. The final scene reveals the number for the National Domestic Abuse Helpline in the bathroom mirror, offering a clear reminder that support is always within reach.
And that support is at the heart of Refuge’s work.
Across England and Wales, one in four women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and in the year ending March 2025, 75 women were killed by a current or former partner or family member. Through campaigns like this, Refuge hopes to ensure more women know they are not alone – and that help is available when they need it most.
Esther*, a survivor whose ex-husband attacked her while she was pregnant, says the film reflects experiences many women face.
“The scene in the bathroom is particularly harrowing – but these are the realities women are living with right now. I hope the film reaches those who need it most and helps them realise they are not alone and that support is available.”
Refuge ambassador Cherie Blair echoed the importance of raising awareness:
“For so many women, abuse happens in the very place that’s meant to feel safest. If this film helps even one woman recognise the signs and seek support, it will have made a difference.”
Every day, Refuge supports women and their children to escape abuse, rebuild their lives and find safety. Campaigns like this not only raise awareness but help connect more people with the charity’s specialist services.
🎬 Watch the film:
If you or someone close to you has felt unsafe at home because of a current or former partner or family member, Refuge is there to help.
To help more women find Refuge, text REFUGE to 70560 to donate £10.
*Esther is a fake name used to protect the survivor's identity.
