Hibiscus Initiatives is delighted to announce that it has been awarded five year funding by the Big Lottery Fund under the Women and Girls’ Initiative, to set up a one-stop shop for marginalised foreign national, migrant and black and minority ethnic women affected by the criminal justice and immigration systems.  The Hibiscus Women’s Centre will be a unique women-only, safe, welcoming space where  the women can access a range of services under one roof, including casework, education, training, bespoke workshops and legal clinics.

Hibiscus Initiatives will continue to develop holistic, women-centred services through this Centre and the women themselves will be involved in shaping the services offered. We will also promote co-ordinated, joined-up services by involving partner agencies in providing specialist immigration, health, housing, finance and counselling services.

The aim of the Centre is to provide emotional and practical support and advocacy, to foster a sense of belonging in the women and reduce their marginalisation and sense of isolation.

Adrienne Darragh, Chief Executive of Hibiscus says: “These are challenging times for women’s organisations working in the Criminal Justice Sector. We are very excited to be part of BLF Women and Girl’s Initiative project and we look forward to working with our beneficiaries and other partners in shaping and delivering a unique model of supporting vulnerable women. The next five years will be a rewarding and learning journey for all of us.”