Sir Patrick Stewart

Sir Patrick Stewart

Hourglass is deeply saddened by the death of Sir Patrick Stewart, aged 86. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all who loved him.

Known around the world for his extraordinary work on stage and screen, Sir Patrick also used his public profile to speak out against domestic abuse. His willingness to discuss the violence his father inflicted on his mother brought a deeply personal voice to his advocacy.

Through his support for Refuge, he challenged the silence surrounding abuse and urged others to speak out. He spoke about the fear of growing up in a home where his mother experienced repeated violence, and where help had seemed out of reach. Sharing those experiences publicly was an act of courage and compassion.

For us at Hourglass, his example has particular resonance. In our work with older victim-survivors, we see how fear, shame and silence can prevent people from seeking support, sometimes for decades. We also see how the effects of abuse can endure throughout a person’s life.

As we remember Sir Patrick’s remarkable artistic achievements, we also honour his commitment to people living with abuse. He used his voice to encourage others to listen, to recognise suffering and to take responsibility for change.

Everyone deserves safety, dignity and freedom from abuse, at every age. We will remember Sir Patrick with gratitude for helping to bring that message to a worldwide audience.