Bawso 30th Anniversary Gala Night

Changing Lives since 1996

On the evening of 17 July, family, friends, founders, supporters, partners, volunteers and survivors came together to celebrate a remarkable milestone: 30 years of Bawso. For three decades, Bawso has stood alongside individuals and families across Wales, providing safety, advocacy, protection and hope to those affected by abuse, exploitation and violence.

The Gala Night was more than a celebration, it was a moment to honour the courage of survivors, recognise the dedication of staff and volunteers, and reflect on the collective journey that has shaped Bawso since 1996.

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Welcoming Community

Guests arrived to a warm reception, bringing together people from across Wales who share a belief in equality, dignity and social justice. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as old friends reconnected and new conversations began. The evening opened with a vibrant celebration of Bawso’s legacy and future vision.

Bawso Journey

The evening was expertly guided by our Masters of Ceremony, Rachel McDonald and Natalie Jones, whose warmth, energy and professionalism brought the programme to life. From welcoming guests to introducing speakers and performers, they helped create an atmosphere of celebration, reflection and unity throughout the night.

The audience then heard from Mwape Burke, Chair of Bawso, who opened the evening with a message of gratitude and hope. Reflecting on the organisation’s 30-year journey, she highlighted the importance of recognising not only Bawso’s achievements, but also the courage and resilience of the individuals and communities at the heart of its work.

One of the evening’s most moving moments followed as founding voices Gaynor Legall and Margaret Smith shared reflections on the origins of Bawso. Their inspiring stories highlighted the vision, determination and commitment that led to the creation of an organisation that has become a lifeline for countless individuals across Wales.

Guests were then invited to reflect on Bawso’s journey and impact over three decades through an address by Jane Hutt CBE, who recognised the organisation’s growth, achievements and enduring contribution to safeguarding and supporting communities across Wales.

The evening’s keynote address was delivered by Dame Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales. Her powerful insights focused on progress made in protecting survivors, the importance of prevention, and the collective responsibility to continue driving positive change for future generations.

Voices of Strength and Resilience

A particularly powerful part of the programme focused on survivor experiences and the transformational impact of support services. These moments reminded everyone in the room that behind every statistic is a human story of courage, survival and hope.

The audience was also inspired by performances celebrating resilience, creativity and cultural identity, reflecting the diverse communities Bawso proudly serves across Wales.

Honouring Excellence

As the evening unfolded, attention turned to celebrating the people whose stories, achievements and contributions embody the spirit of Bawso. The Awards and Recognitions Ceremony honoured former service users whose resilience and determination inspire others, alongside long-serving staff members, volunteers, partners, community champions and supporters who have played a vital role in Bawso’s 30-year journey.

The ceremony recognised individuals whose commitment has helped transform lives, strengthen communities and advance Bawso’s mission across Wales. Long-serving staff were acknowledged for their years of dedication, compassion and service, while former service users were celebrated for the courage, growth and achievements that reflect the lasting impact of support and empowerment.

More than a presentation of awards, the ceremony was a celebration of resilience, transformation and collective achievement. Each recipient’s story reflected the power of hope, perseverance and community, demonstrating how individuals working together can create lasting change and brighter futures for generations to come.

Thank you!  

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of Bawso’s 30-year journey, including our partners, funders, sponsors, current and former staff, volunteers, service users and former service users. Your dedication, trust and continued support have helped shape Bawso into the organisation it is today. 

We also thank our speakers, performers and everyone who helped organise and deliver the Gala Night. Your contributions made the evening a truly memorable celebration of courage, resilience and collective achievement.  

Together, we will continue changing lives and building safer futures across Wales. 

View the full gallarey of photos here! Please note that you will need to request the password by emailing 30anniversary@bawso.org.uk