Victim Support volunteer wins anti-domestic violence award
Published: 17 October 2012
- Date:
- 17 October 2012
Sheila Fairhurst looking deservedly proud after receiving the Emma Humphreys Memorial Prize for her work to end male violence. Image: Trevor Fairhurst
Inspirational Victim Support volunteer Sheila Fairhurst, whose 19-year old daughter Carly was killed by her abusive boyfriend, has received the Emma Humphreys Memorial Prize for the work she has done to 'end male violence'.
Sheila and her husband Trevor attended a gala dinner in London where Sheila was presented with the award and gave her first public speech.
Sheila said: "The organisors called me up a few weeks beforehand to tell me the news and I burst into tears when I heard. I was very nervous before giving the speech but the audience were so welcoming that it went very smoothly. I even mentioned Victim Support as they have helped me so much.
"All my work is to fight for my daughter who can't fight for herself."
Two Emma Humphreys Memorial prizes are given each year, one to an individual and one to a group which has done 'inspirational work to end male violence.'
Javed Khan, Chief Executive of Victim Support said: "This is yet another shining example of how hard Sheila Fairhurst works to campaign against domestic violence. She is an amazing women and Victim Support is pleased that she has been recognised with this honour."
Javed recently unveiled a memorial to celebrate the life of Carly Fairhurst at the Wigan Life Centre.
Trevor and Sheila have set up the Carly Fund to raise money for counselling services and Victim Support.