THE DOORS to a new venue to support vulnerable women and families have opened in Leamington.
Following a full renovation and refurbishment, the new Helping Hands Esther Project venue was officially opened by Matthew Hickin, CEO of Calor Gas. The company donated £10,000 to the project which aims to help women who have been a victim of domestic violence.
Volunteers from Calor have also worked closely with homeless charity Helping Hands to ensure the space could be taken from a cold dark basement, to a war, welcoming and safe zone. The room will now be used for crafting, dining, and meeting others, and help vulnerable women rebuild their confidence and provide support in a place they feel comfortable.
Charity CEO Lianne Kirkman said: “This refurbished multi-purpose venue is absolutely vital to help us move forward with our Esther vision.
“We believe for anyone who has experienced trauma in their lives, they need to feel safe, soothed, seen, valued, and worthy to overcome and counteract that trauma.
“The state of the previous drop-in room could easily trigger some post-traumatic reactions in our clients with its utilitarian style. It could have easily reminded them of a doctor’s waiting room or a difficult experience.
“We wanted to create a space for our clients where they could feel positive – a place of security, a place they can feel welcomed and loved unconditionally and be accepted for who they are without judgement.”
Lianne was inspired to launch the project by her own story of overcoming mental health issues.
She added: “Our Esther group is full of women who are often still held captive by their addictions, events that have happened to them, or words people have said, so we invite them to come to our group, where they can develop trusting friendships, receive help through counselling, as well as being reminded of their true worth, strength and courage.”
The project provides opportunities for the women to volunteer, complete educational courses, enjoy pamper days and other wellbeing activities.
Visit www.helpinghandscharity.org.uk for more information on the charity.
