Dr Idee Charles speech at the Black History Month Event, 2023

THG CIC run a women’s support group. They meet every 6 weeks to share experiences, laughter, friendship and support each other. We identified that following migration to a new environment, it is easy to feel lonely and isolated. We have created this safe space to reduce isolation amongst the Black women and improve the wellbeing. We identify any abnormal situation early and work with women to manage and bring about solution. We collaborate with other services to come in and speak to the women from time to time . Topic ranging from cancer, menopause, healthy eating, maintaining good mental health. Women from the BAME community can attend.

Breaking Barriers was a community engagement initiative commissioned by The Office of The Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) to understand and address the support needs of black and minoritised communities regarding domestic abuse. While the experience of domestic abuse cuts across both men and women, this project solely focused on the experiences of BAME women.

The project, delivered by The Health Gospel CIC, Grimsby, in partnership with diverse women’s groups across North Lincolnshire from January to April 2025, employed an innovative dual approach combining formal research with intensive community outreach to increase awareness, improve reporting, encourage open dialogue and improve access of support services among women these communities.