Student group inspired by relative of iconic Suffragette raise money for domestic abuse charity

A group of students who were inspired to set up a feminist group after hearing a talk from a relative of the suffragettes raised over £200.00 for a charity that supports people who have experienced domestic abuse.

The youngsters are from One Sixth Form College and they created a bake sale for Lighthouse Women’s Aid to support a recent festive campaign.

They set up the group in 2023 after welcoming Helen Pankhurst – the great granddaughter of Emmeline Pankhurst - to their Ipswich based college for a discussion on history, politics and sociology.

Lucy Clarke, 17, from Witnesham is studying A levels at One. She explains: “Helen came in and it was the first time we had really focussed on feminism at the college. It was interesting to meet someone who had a connection to the Suffragettes.

“It was an engaging talk and we followed this up by setting up a Feminist Society. We meet every week to discuss various topics. I’ve done a bit of research and found lots of feminist groups at university – but not any at high schools or colleges. I think our work is important as feminism isn’t just a problem for adults, it’s for people of all ages – because inequality is an issue for everyone.”

Kitty Boo-Capey, 17 from Martlesham said: “We have been surprised by the interest in the group and we are keen to make the college an inclusive environment.”

In terms of the support for Lighthouse, Kate Platt, 17, from Ipswich said: “We heard the charity accepted donations and decided to do a bake sale. Some teachers created some decorations for us to sell and we raised £233.58. It’s important that we work with the local community. We hope to invite them in as a guest speaker in the future.”

Kate Platt with Helen Pankhurst - Kate was inspired to become part of a feminist society after this talk with the relative of Emmeline Pankhurst

A spokesperson from the charity said: “Lighthouse were delighted to be supported by One Sixth Form College Feminist Society with their bake sale that raised over £200.00 to support our Christmas Appeal.

“Lighthouse is a Suffolk based charity supporting women, young people and children affected by domestic abuse, as well as providing training to businesses around the duty of care to their employees.

“Support from our local community is vital. With one in four women and one in six men being affected by domestic abuse in their lifetime it is essential that charities like Lighthouse continue to exist and support from our local community no matter how big or small really does make a difference.”