International Women’s Day Community Heroes

Community Hero in the Spotlight, March 2024

For International Women’s Day, we’re sharing five incredible groups…

Families and Babies (FAB) Dorset champion mothers’ rights to make informed choices about infant feeding and empower them to achieve their breastfeeding goals with:

  • 12 Breastfeeding Support Groups: Connect with trained peer supporters who offer guidance and encouragement in a friendly group setting.
  • Active Facebook Group: Find a supportive online community where you can share experiences, ask questions, and access remote support from volunteers.
  • Breastfeeding Friendly Venues: FAB Dorset helps local businesses become breastfeeding-friendly by providing staff training, certification, and visibility. Look for the window sticker to know you’re welcome to breastfeed!

Empowering Mums, Building Confidence

www.familiesandbabies.org.uk

Facebook Group: Search for FAB Dorset Facebook Group

Safe and Sound Dorset created a unique experience for vulnerable women in Bournemouth. Brownsea Island became a sanctuary of safety and freedom, offering them the exclusive opportunity to explore and connect with nature. This collaboration between the conservation charity and the local women’s support organization highlights the National Trust’s commitment to community-focused initiatives.

The island provided a haven for the women, allowing them to participate in activities like tree hugging and journaling, fostering a sense of peace and renewal. This special day empowered the women and showcased the positive impact that nature can have on the healing process.

Inara Project was featured on Hope FM to share information about their support to local women from various ethnic backgrounds.

 

The Shine Project is a 9-week course designed to empower young women and non-binary people. It focuses on physical and mental health, giving attendees the tools to navigate life’s challenges and shine brightly.

They encourage:

  • Stronger Self-Esteem: Learn to build self-acceptance and challenge negative thoughts.
  • Healthy Relationships: Develop skills for creating and maintaining positive connections with friends, family, and others.
  • Effective Communication: Communicate confidently and express yourself clearly.
  • Emotional Resilience: Learn healthy ways to manage strong emotions and bounce back from setbacks.
  • Body Positivity: Develop a healthy relationship with food and exercise, understanding how to care for yourself physically.
  • Media Savvy: Identify unrealistic media portrayals and navigate social media safely and positively.
  • Unleash Potential: Discover unique skills, talents, and aspirations.

“Shine allowed me to be kinder to myself and bounce back from challenges. I’m so glad I took part – it made a big difference in my confidence and how I connect with others.” Shine Student 2023

Shine offer workshops, speakers, and resources to help people on their journey.

www.shineproject.org.uk/

Meet Anne (Mon-Wed): 07780 604643 / anne@shineproject.org.uk

Meet Liz (Thurs-Fri): 07803 033586 / liz@shineproject.org.uk

Space Youth Project is a beacon of support for LGBTQ+ young people in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. Their mission is to empower these young individuals to develop positive self-esteem, feel supported, build a strong sense of community, and overcome challenges caused by prejudice.

Through regular group sessions, Space Youth Project provides a platform for young people to connect, share experiences, offer guidance, and find acceptance. These sessions foster a safe and inclusive environment, particularly welcoming trans women/girls and lesbians.

“Our groups are exceptionally inclusive for all, especially trans women/girls and lesbians.”space Helen Walsh, Space CEO.

Space Youth Project

Space Youth Project celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community, using “trans” as an umbrella term to encompass transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, agender identities, and those with non-Western gender identities or a trans history.