The Monster Who Came to Tea

Women’s Aid, the UK’s leading charity working to end domestic abuse, has launched a groundbreaking new campaign, ‘The Monster Who Came to Tea’, aimed at pressuring the government to re-evaluate funding for domestic abuse support services ahead of the Spring Spending Review.

Inspired by a beloved children’s book, this poignant campaign tells the harrowing story of a mother and daughter experiencing domestic abuse, seen through the eyes of a young girl named Lily. As the story unfolds, it delivers a devastating twist: that the ‘monster’ is not a fictional creature but a father—exposing the harsh reality faced by thousands of women and children across the UK. The campaign, featuring a powerful film, OOH, social, and the book, serves as a rallying cry for urgent government action to properly fund specialist domestic abuse services, particularly for women and children. The campaign was created by Women’s Aid’s agency of record, House 337. Merman Branded and Passion Pictures co-produced the film.

Farah Nazeer, Chief Executive, 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.”

At the heart of the campaign is a deeply moving film directed by award-winning filmmaker Guy Manwaring, produced by Merman Branded, and featuring award-winning composer Stuart Hancock. The film seamlessly transitions from live-action to animation, created in collaboration with Passion Pictures, Tulips & Chimneys, and is narrated by acclaimed actress Anne-Marie Duff (Bad Sisters).

Bad Sisters actress and ‘The Monster Who Came to Tea’ end-line narrator, Anne-Marie Duff, said: “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 film will be distributed across social media and cinema, with screenings in Pearl & Dean cinemas across the UK. It will be supported by out-of-home (OOH) activations that emulate a classic book launch—featuring teaser quotes designed to spark audience engagement and encourage signatures for an open letter to the UK government.

Across social media, the campaign will highlight survivor stories that showcase the support Women’s Aid provides to women and children. It will raise awareness of domestic abuse, educate the public, and guide them in signing an open letter urging government investment in specialist support services for young people.

Josh Green, Chief Creative Officer, House 337, commented: “Creativity has the power to shine a light on critical issues. By reimagining a beloved children’s book, we hope to create an emotional and lasting impact that compels both the public and policymakers to take action.”

In a campaign first and as part of their long-term commitment to ending domestic abuse, Women’s Aid has created lesson plans for schools. The plans draw on ‘The Monster Who Came to Tea’ to help educate children and young people about how to spot the signs of unhealthy relationships. The lesson plans are currently being rolled out in partner schools as part of the PSHE curriculum, with the ambition of being available for schools to download more widely later this year. This initiative aims to educate the next generation about domestic abuse, equipping young people with the knowledge and tools to recognise and seek help for harmful situations.

Women’s Aid is calling on the public to sign an open letter to Keir Starmer, urging the government to prioritise funding for specialist domestic abuse services in the Spring Spending Review. Alongside the letter, a copy of the book will be sent to Downing Street as a powerful statement on the need for systemic change.

Lucy Freedman, Chief Growth Officer, House 337, added: “‘The Monster Who Came to Tea’ isn’t just a campaign—it’s a movement. By integrating an educational component, we’re ensuring this conversation continues beyond the campaign’s lifespan and into the classroom, helping to shape a future free from domestic abuse.”

With the government’s current funding failing to meet the needs of women and children escaping domestic abuse, Women’s Aid is determined to bring this issue to the forefront of national conversation. To sign the open letter and support the cause, visit https://takeaction.womensaid.org.uk/openletter