Here at Black Country Women’s Aid we understand that for some women, traditional services catering to one need at a time are not enough. We know that some women face a complexity of issues, such as offending, abuse, substance misuse, and mental health, which makes it harder for them to access the services they need. This can create a revolving door effect, with women being referred into lots of services but engaging with none. Research from Agenda reveals one in 20 women have experienced extensive physical and sexual violence as both a child and an adult. These women face very high rates of additional issues:
- More than half have a common mental health condition
- One in three have attempted suicide
- One in five have been homeless
- One in three have an alcohol problem
For some of these women abuse, violence, and disadvantage combine meaning they have very complex, overlapping needs. Many end up in very difficult situations, for example there are:
- Approximately 11,000 women in hostels
- Nearly 7000 women sent to prison each year
- 80,000 women involved in prostitution
We exist to support and empower women who experience abuse wherever and however they present, and so have developed this specialist service to best meet their needs. Evidence shows that female only, trauma informed, holistic services which place the client at the heart of the support offered is what works for this client group, and this is what we are striving to provide through our various projects. We are members of Agenda, Women Breakout and Clinks.