This year marks a significant milestone for Lancashire Women as we celebrate 40 years of empowering individuals and families across Lancashire. Over the past four decades, we’ve grown to become a leading charity, supporting an average of 5,000 people each year in overcoming barriers and creating better futures.

From mental health and wellbeing to employment support, financial guidance, and justice and safety initiatives, we’ve made a tangible difference in thousands of lives. Yet, while we are immensely proud of what we have achieved together with our community, there is still so much more to be done.

A Snapshot of Lancashire Today

Despite progress, challenges persist. Across Lancashire, many women and families still face significant socio-economic hurdles.

• Economic Disparities: Research highlights that women in the UK are more likely to experience poverty than men, with single mothers particularly affected. In Lancashire, 22% of children live in low-income families, a stark reminder of the financial struggles faced by many households. (Source: End Child Poverty Coalition)
• Mental Health Concerns: National statistics reveal that one in four women in the UK experiences a common mental health disorder such as anxiety or depression each year. Our own experience in Lancashire underscores the importance of accessible, community-based mental health services to bridge gaps in support. (Source: Mental Health Foundation)
• Domestic Abuse: Domestic violence remains a pressing issue. In Lancashire, police recorded over 22,000 domestic abuse-related crimes in a single year, affecting women, children, and families. (Source: Office for National Statistics)

Achievements Worth Celebrating

Over the past 40 years, Lancashire Women has grown into a vital lifeline for the community. Key accomplishments include:

• Supporting thousands of individuals through mental health and wellbeing programmes, including one-to-one and group sessions.
• Offering comprehensive employment and skills training, helping women gain the confidence to re-enter the workforce.
• Providing expert money and energy advice, helping families navigate the cost-of-living crisis.
• Advocating for vulnerable women in the justice system, offering pathways to safety and stability.

These milestones are a testament to the resilience of the people we serve and the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters.

Looking to the Future

As we reflect on 40 years of impact, we remain acutely aware that our work is far from over. Societal inequalities, financial struggles, and barriers to wellbeing persist in Lancashire. Our mission is to continue evolving and expanding our services to meet the changing needs of our community.

We invite you to join us in this mission. Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or simply spreading the word about our work, every contribution makes a difference.

Together, We Can Do More

Lancashire Women’s 40th anniversary is a time to celebrate, but it’s also a call to action. By working together, we can push for a future where every woman in Lancashire has the opportunity to thrive, free from barriers and filled with possibility.

Thank you for being part of our journey so far. Here’s to the next 40 years of making a difference, together!