World Book Day is the creative spark for a powerful new campaign from Women’s Aid, the UK’s leading charity working to end domestic abuse.

The hard-hitting new campaign ‘The Monster Who Came to Tea’, was created by House 337 and designed to pressure the government to re-evaluate funding for domestic abuse support services ahead of the Spring Spending Review.

Leaning on the much-loved story ‘The Tiger Who Came To Tea’ the familiar narrative arc of a much-loved children’s story is brought to life to tell the harrowing story of domestic abuse. 

The story features 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 real father. 

A narrative which powerfully exposes the harsh reality faced by thousands of women and children across the UK. 

The campaign features a film co-produced by Merman Branded and Passion Pictures as well as out of home advertising, social and a book. It serves as a rallying cry for urgent government action to properly fund specialist domestic abuse services, particularly for women and children. 

Farah Nazeer, Chief Executive of Women’s Aid, explained: “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.”

She continued: “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.”

The film was directed by award-winning filmmaker, Guy Manwaring, and features award-winning composer, Stuart Hancock. The film transitions from live-action to animation, created in collaboration with Passion Pictures, Tulips & Chimneys, and is narrated by acclaimed actress Anne-Marie Duff.

Anne-Marie Duff, Actress and narrator of the film shared: “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 also be supported by out-of-home 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 how Women’s Aid is able to support women and children. 

Josh Green, Chief Creative Officer at House 337, shared: “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 also 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.”

To sign the open letter and support the movement please click here