'Life under lockdown' project raises vital funds for charity

One of the families featured in the project.

Several businesses across the wider Larne and Carrickfergus areas have teamed up for the project, which has already generated £3000 and counting for Women's Aid ABCLN.

So far, they have documented over 170 families within the grounds of their homes, all while adhering to government guidelines on social distancing and travel.

Caroline Smyth Photography, the main organiser of the project, wrote on Facebook: "The portrait sessions are free and you will have your images to download free of charge, but I would ask, if you can afford a few pound, to make a wee donation to the GoFundMe page for our local Women's Aid ABCLN.

"The money raised will be used for local women and kids who need to flee abusive homes during lockdown. The level of domestic abuse cases being reported has shot up since lockdown started which is just heartbreaking. Not everyone is safe at home."

The initiative began as a "personal" project, Caroline added: "I was starting to struggle not taking photographs after my weddings were cancelled and studio had to close. I also wanted to raise awareness and money for local women who needed the services of Women's Aid aid during lockdown.

"Another photographer approached me and asked could she join me and cover her area; we now are a group of eight covering lots of different areas.. It has created a real wee buzz in our local communities as well as documenting social history and doing our bit for Women's Aid."

Commenting on the initiative, Women’s Aid ABCLN said: “We know that home is not a safe place for everyone during lockdown, and are delighted that Caroline Smyth and her team of photographers have chosen to help support our work.

“The project has captured a very unique moment in time and has raised an a incredible amount of money for women and children affected by domestic abuse. We want to thank everyone who has taken part and supported us in such a generous way.

"It is so important for us to raise awareness at this critical time and get the message out there for women to say you are not alone. Women’s Aid ABCLN is here for you and help is available.”

"If you are affected by domestic abuse call Women’s Aid ABCLN on 028 25 632136."

For further details as to the areas covered by the project, see Caroline Smyth Photography on Facebook.