Usually, the bedtime tales parents read to their children before sleep revolve around fairy tales, fantasy and magical worlds, or educational stories, amongst many others. These tales not only make the bedtime routine more fun but also nurture kids’ creativity and imagination. Yet, there’s a bedtime book no parent wants to read to their child before sleep: “The Monster Who Came to Tea” story, launched ahead of the Spring Spending Review.
Written by “A Survivor,” the not-so-ordinary children’s book focuses on the sad reality that many domestic abuse victims — children and women — go through. Developed by the non-profit organization Women’s Aid in partnership with agency House 337, the story raises awareness of this critical issue and also calls on the UK government to rethink the funding for domestic abuse support services.
The book is brought to life in a two-minute-long video, co-produced by Merman Branded and Passion Pictures, with animation from Tulips & Chimneys, and directed by Guy Manwaring. The spot introduces the viewers to the bedtime routine a mother shares with her child. With the daughter all tucked in bed, they are ready to read “The Monster Who Came to Tea.” As the live-action transitions to animation, the film soon takes a dark turn, presenting the harsh reality of domestic abuse faced by kids and women. Narrated by Anne-Marie Duff (“Bad Sisters” actress), the spot’s storyline switches back to reality, triggered by the sound of a doorbell.
“Narrating part of this harrowing story has been a cause incredibly close to my heart, and whilst it’s a privilege to be asked, I wish stories like this weren’t needed. I hope this tale encourages people to take note of what’s still happening within our society, because with increased awareness, we can generate a safer future for both women and children,” the actress and end-line storyteller commented.
Farah Nazeer, Chief Executive at Women’s Aid added: “Countless women and their children live in fear every day and this must change. We’re calling on the government to take urgent action and provide adequate funding for the lifesaving domestic abuse services that support those fleeing abuse. By signing our open letter, you can show your solidarity with women and their children fleeing abuse, and spark change this International Women’s Day. ‘The Monster Who Came to Tea’ is not a story anyone would choose to read to their children, but sadly for many, this tale is not fiction. The Government’s pledge to halve violence against women in a decade will require tangible actions and not empty words.”
According to the organization, last year, around 1.6 million women and 1.8 million children in the UK faced domestic abuse. Fewer than 1 in 10 received support through a refuge or community-based service. Women’s Aid has addressed an open letter to the Prime Minister, encouraging the public to join the cause and sign the letter to urge the government to take action and invest in specialist domestic abuse services.
CREDITS
Brand: Women’s Aid
Agency: House 337
