Working with Women
One of the most challenging areas of engagement in Barnabus' ministry is that of working with women who may face issues such as homelessness, unemployment, domestic violence, drug use, boredom or forms of social marginalisation. Barnabus has worked with women since its inception and over that time has developed a number of initiatives aimed at growing relationships with women and supporting them. These projects have had mixed success due to the often unsettled nature of the lives of those attending.
Towards the latter end of 2007 Barnabus was offered the opportunity to work in a local women's hostel providing canteen facilities and activities, including an arts and crafts session with a particular emphasis on jewellery and cards. The work has grown with a team now in the hostel three days a week and a consequent increase in the number of activities on offer. A partnership with a local creative arts project, 'The Sanctuary', has brought about ‘The Sanctuary Sessions' where the women can further explore their personal creativity as well as receiving the benefits of relaxation sessions. The most recent venture at the hostel has been a seven session cookery course. Involving the women in all aspects of food preparation, including the cooking and serving of meals to fellow residents, this course hopes to increase individual skill, awareness and self confidence.
Being based at the hostel has provided excellent opportunities to build on relationships already established on the street or in local prisons as well as developing many new ones. The positive outcome of this sustained engagement has been the impact on the atmosphere and sense of community within the hostel through providing food in the canteen and activity sessions, which offer easily accessible alternative pastimes and structure to the day. Individuals also gain a sense of achievement in completing creative tasks.
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