A Norfolk homelessness charity is preparing to open a specialist women’s support house in the new year.
Emmaus Norfolk and Waveney is expanding by introducing a nine-bedroom women’s only accommodation at the All Hallows Convent in Ditchingham.
This space will be designed to support women in “rebuilding their lives” after experiencing homelessness and trauma.
Emmaus already provides a home to dozens of residents, known to the charity as “companions”.
The charity identified a need for specialist women’s support after opening a three-bedroom women’s wing in 2020.
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This year, Emmaus Norfolk and Waveney has seen a “rapid increase” in referrals from women applying to join their community.
The new community house will welcome nine women in January for a one-year pilot of the project.
The charity has a lease on a property to the rear of the site which will allow women to have a separate and secluded space.
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The project looks to see women gaining new skills, including textiles, upcycling and blacksmithing in the charity’s forge to create bespoke items.
It also aims to give them “therapeutic support” and an eight-week programme on recovery from domestic abuse and sexual violence.
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Cecile Roberts, CEO of Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney, said: “We’re thrilled to offer this important support for women.
“Through our work with companions, we identified specific challenges that were preventing some women from growing and moving forward.
“This project is designed to empower women to make healthier life choices and take meaningful steps toward building authentic, stable, and fulfilling lives.
“We’re deeply grateful to our landlords, the Community of All Hallows for their invaluable support in helping us expand our reach and make a greater impact.”
Applications can be made by contacting the support team via info@emmausnw.org.
The charity is also converting the upstairs of the Abbe Pierre House into a bed and breakfast with 23 rooms.
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