A Year of Challenge and Change
Welcome from the CEO
As I approach eight months in post, I am pleased to share that, following my six-month period as Interim CEO, I have now been formally appointed as the permanent Chief Executive of Gilgal. Co-production and lived experience are central to my values, and I firmly believe that the voices of survivors should shape the services we deliver. For this reason, I was pleased to have a panel of women who are currently supported by Gilgal participate in my interview.
This year has brought significant challenges for Gilgal, but our staff have continued to work tirelessly, supporting well over 50 women and 38 children. Throughout this period, Gilgal Birmingham has remained steadfast in delivering its core services, providing safe refuge accommodation for women and children escaping domestic abuse. Our residents have continued to receive specialist support, advocacy, and counselling to rebuild confidence, address trauma, and prepare for moving out into the community. Our dedicated children’s service has offered emotional and practical support, including play-based interventions and opportunities for recreation and development. Across the year, Gilgal has continued to deliver life-changing support, with strong outcomes for women in the areas of financial stability, community connection, education and employment, parenting, and immigration.
We are now evolving our service model to extend beyond refuge provision and deepen our reach into communities. Gilgal is developing new outreach support and community drop-in sessions in partnership with Bethel Healing, Iridium Practice, West Heath Community Centre, and Small Heath Baptist Church—creating safe and accessible spaces for women to seek support in settings that feel familiar and welcoming. More locations are in development, so watch this space. We are also in the process of establishing our own Women’s Hub, an exciting new offer that we aim to open in January, with further details to follow. In addition, we are partnering with Beyond the Horizon to provide children in the community with access to specialised play therapy, extending our commitment to trauma-informed support beyond refuge.
I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to our staff, volunteers, and trustees. Their commitment, compassion, and resilience ensure that Gilgal continues to be a lifeline for women and children experiencing domestic abuse. Your dedication is at the heart of everything we achieve, and I am truly grateful for all that you do.
Elisabeth Sheppard
CEO, Gilgal Birmingham
