Charity Launches Women-Only Sessions at Homeless Centre

A charity dedicated to supporting homeless individuals has announced plans to introduce weekly women-only sessions at its city centre facility. Light Project Peterborough (LLP) operates The Garden House, a respite day centre for rough sleepers, where it provides vital support and advice. This initiative aims to create a “safe and comfortable environment” specifically for women, addressing their unique needs and concerns.

According to the charity, approximately 20% of the individuals they assist are women, and there has been a noticeable increase in female visitors over the past two years. Services manager Paddy Berryman stated that many vulnerable women visiting The Garden House often feel “intimidated” by the presence of men at the centre. To address this, female volunteers will be available to offer guidance and support.

“They can seek help without fear,” Berryman explained. “Women, especially those fleeing abuse, experience anxiety or have been through trauma, which can make them feel unsafe in predominantly male spaces.” The Garden House provides various services, including healthcare support, housing assistance, and access to facilities such as showers. Berryman emphasized that the goal is to help women engage with these services to facilitate their progress.

The latest homelessness report from Peterborough City Council revealed that there were 24 rough sleepers identified in the city in 2023. The LLP has faced “a challenging” summer, particularly due to hot weather conditions, with 110 new visitors attending the centre between May and July. “We have distributed more water, sun cream, and ice lollies than in any previous year,” Berryman noted.

In response to the increased demand for services, the LLP has recently recruited two new project workers to enhance its support capabilities. Additionally, Berryman mentioned that the charity is preparing for its participation in the Great Eastern Run in Peterborough, where it serves as a charity partner. “We are close to reaching our target of 50 runners, and there is still time for people to sign up,” he added.

This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the specific challenges faced by women experiencing homelessness, and the charity’s commitment to providing tailored support is a significant step towards addressing these needs in the community.