How we’ve helped: Her Centre

Her Centre in Greenwich has been a vital source of support for women experiencing domestic abuse and sexual violence for 13 years. Each year, the provide advocacy services to over 1,200 women, many of whom face urgent housing challenges as they escape abuse.

In February 2025, through our funding round, we were honoured to award Her Centre a project grant to help expand their support services for women living in emergency and temporary accommodation. Recently, we received their grant report – shedding light on an often overlooked issue: abuse by adult children.

A growing challenge

Abuse from adult children is a complex issue. Many women affected hesitate to take legal action against their children, fearing the consequences, which leads to prolonged stays in emergency housing – including hotels – as they struggle to find safety.

Through the support funded by our grant, Her Centre has run a series of support group meetings specifically for women facing this challenge. These groups provide a safe, confidential space to share experiences, heal, and build community, all facilitated by a trained counsellor. The organisation has also offered emergency food cards for supermarkets and covered trave costs for women who commute long distances to care for their children while trying to rebuild their lives.

Impact on well-being

The organisation’s report highlights how these support groups have been transformative. Many women are isolated, cut off from friends and family, and live with constant uncertainty. The groups provide vital emotional support and help women understand that they are not alone.

Emergency financial assistance has helped women in transition periods, when waiting for benefits, pay checks, or housing settlements, so they can meet their basic needs.

A survivor’s story

Her Centre shared an anonymous testimonial from one of their clients:

“Dirty, ashamed, heartbroken, confused, embarrassed, scared, cautious, mindful, alone. These were the feelings I lived with daily for 25 years. The abuse came from my son — someone I nurtured and loved. It began when he was 14 and continued until he was 39, still living with us. The abuse was coercive and escalated as my husband and I became more vulnerable. The day I called the police and he was arrested was the worst day of my life – but also the first time I felt safe in 25 years. Her Centre supported me immediately: installing alarms, personal alarms, and security measures. Joining the support group was terrifying at first, but I found warmth, understanding, and strength. Now, 2.5 years later, I still attend to support others. We are survivors. I cannot imagine surviving without Her Centre and the strong women I’ve met there. I am not alone.”

Why this work matters

Her Centre’s work highlights the importance of tailored support for women facing unique and often hidden forms of abuse. The combination of emotional support, practical help, and community connection empowers women to reclaim their safety and rebuild their lives.

We are deeply honoured to support this organisation and are committed to providing funding that helps women access the resources they need.

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