Jonathan has recently visited the Women’s Support Centre – which is based in Woking High Street and is one of Mayor Beryl Hunwicks’ chosen charities for this current Mayoral year.
During his visit Jonathan discussed many of the issues affecting women in the criminal justice system and saw first-hand the terrific work the Centre does to support women across Surrey.
Set up thirteen years ago, the Centre offers a safe and homely space for women in which to access gender-specialist support services. Situated on the High Street in Woking near the station, the Centre has a living room area, space for workshops, quiet rooms for counselling and a kitchen. The Centre is devoted to creating a community and a creative space as well as support services.
The Women's Support Centre is a 'one-stop-shop' offering group work, one-to-one and counselling support for women with regard to:
- Domestic violence/sexual abuse
- Mental health
- Substance misuse and alcohol addiction
- Debt or money issues
- Parenting support
- Housing and homelessness
- Education and employment
- General emotional well-being and physical well-being
The Centre also runs the Sliding Doors programme which is for girls 14-18 who are deemed at risk of child sexual exploitation. They have a family support worker who runs regular group sessions with the girls to support them and make them aware of the choices that they have.
Jonathan Lord, Member of Parliament for Woking said:
“During my visit, I learnt a great deal about the fantastic work the Centre does to support women across Surrey, and I will be happy to support their endeavours in the years to come.”
Where to find the Centre and how to contact:
Women's Support Centre
19A High Street
Woking
GU21 6BW
t. 01483 726621
Pictured in the photograph is Jonathan Lord MP, Carole Appleby (CEO), and Carolyn Yoong of Woking Soroptimists.
