Lights for Change – A Christmas Tree for a Safer Future

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is inviting residents, businesses and community groups to take part in Lights for Change – A Christmas Tree for a Safer Future, a festive campaign designed to raise awareness and inspire action to end violence against women and girls. As part of this initiative, the Council has launched the #BeTheChange Bauble Campaign. Each bauble is more than a decoration; it represents hope, unity and a shared commitment to challenge harmful attitudes and stand against violence. It’s also a conversation starter – a simple way to spark meaningful discussions about creating a safer, more equal future.

Free baubles are available from the following locations, while stocks last:

Connect Centres in Enniskillen and Omagh, Broadmeadow Fitness, Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown, Castle Park Leisure Centre, Lisnaskea, Omagh Leisure Centre, Trillick Leisure Centre and Ecclesville Centre, Fintona.

Local businesses and community associations are also encouraged to get involved by collecting a large #BeTheChange bauble or support stickers for display in shop windows, offices or public spaces, helping spread the message of change throughout our towns and communities.

How to Join the #BeTheChange Campaign:
• Pick up your free bauble
• Take a photo and post it on social media
• Use the hashtag #BeTheChange
• Tag FODC so we can share your post

The campaign runs from 17 November to 6 January, with photo entries for the artistic showcase finale accepted until 19 December. Baubles will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis, so early collection is encouraged.

The project will conclude with a community artwork featuring all tagged photos – a visual celebration of solidarity and shared commitment to ending violence against women and girls.

Cllr Barry McElduff, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, said:

“I will be hanging my #BeTheChange bauble on my own Christmas tree and I encourage everyone across the District to do the same. These baubles are more than decorations; they represent hope, unity and a shared commitment to a safer future. By displaying them throughout our community we send a clear message: violence has no place here.”

This initiative supports The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Framework, launched in September 2024, which focuses on prevention – tackling the root causes of abuse and harm before they begin.

For more information, please visit www.fermanaghomagh.com/BeTheChange