Tea & Talk With Dame Julie Walters

Image by Kate Henwood

On Friday 16th August 2019, special guest Dame Julie Walters visited My Sisters’ House to celebrate the fifth anniversary and official opening of the new centre in Bognor Regis. During Julie’s time at the centre I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to talk with her and ask several questions in a private interview. Over glasses of champagne and squares of purple cake we discussed Julie’s work with Women’s Aid, her platform as a well-known and loved actor, and her thoughts on My Sisters’ House.

Now you’ve seen the centre, what do you think of My Sisters’ House and our new building?

It’s amazing. I didn’t quite know what I was coming to. I know that Julie started in her kitchen, and I thought ‘How sweet.’ I thought it would be quite a small concern really, and it’s actually extensive. It’s the only one in West Sussex, I had no idea of that. I think it’s really really impressive and absolutely vital. After hearing those survivor’s stories it’s clear just how vital and wonderful the work is that they’re doing.

I’m sure you must receive many invitations to all sorts of events. What was it particularly about My Sisters’ House that made you decide to stop by today?

Well, I’m a patron of Women’s Aid and the reason I’m a patron of that is because I can’t imagine anything worse than being trapped in an abusive situation. So when they approached me I said yes, and when I got the letter for the same reason. And even more so because it’s a local group and I’m all for those. Because it’s very much to do with the community. It’s connected with that.

I think it’s wonderful that women can just walk in and there’s someone here, and that takes a lot of courage. But because of the way this place is and the energy and people who work here that makes it easier for them.

I’ve read that you’re a patron for Women’s Aid. What motivated you to join this organisation?

Because I’m a woman. Because I’m a human being. And people being oppressed and abused, particularly women, who are even more vulnerable often because they have children as well, it’s a terrible thought to me personally. And I would just like to support it. And the fact that, as I say, it’s local.

Do you think your platform as a very well-known and loved actor is helpful in regards to your work with Women’s Aid?

I don’t know how much it helps. They seem to think it does. You get the papers coming taking photos and things like that. It puts a spotlight on it, and that brings in money and revenue. Also it puts a spotlight on it for people who are in those appalling, abusive situations so they’ll know that there is help out there.

Many people who could benefit from Women’s Aid or My Sisters’ House are suffering in silence, afraid to speak to someone about their traumas. If you could reach those people now, what would you say to encourage them to seek help?

I’d say the hardest thing is walking through the door. Then, once you’re there, there will be a warm, strong, non-judgemental, supportive team. And it will change your life. It will make you love yourself again.