Support work - Gilgal Birmingham

Two women are seated in a modern, bright room, engaged in conversation. One woman holds a cup and notebook, while the other writes notes. A round coffee table with a few items is in front of them.

At Gilgal Birmingham, we have dedicated Support Workers for women and children to assist them in working through the abuse they have suffered, and help them begin to rebuild their lives.

How we can help:

Support sessions: One-to-one and small group sessions with our trained Independent Domestic Abuse Advisers (IDVAs).
Financial support: Such as applying for benefits, setting up bank accounts, reducing debt, and budgeting.
Accessing legal support: Utilising our network to start court proceedings (such as divorce), and support with custody and financial disputes.

Complex needs support: Our specialist counsellor supports women with complex needs like alcohol and drug addiction, alongside external rehab services.
Planning for the future: Exploring hobbies, starting education or training, or applying to college or university. For example, we have had women go on to train as Support Workers, to help others on the same journey as themselves!

Do you need Gilgal’s support?

Fill in a referral form today.

Whatever the women in our refuge need or hope to achieve, we’re here to support them – offering the practical support, guidance, and encouragement they need to rebuild their lives and move toward independence.

Gilgal referrals

Support for children

We can assist with:

Finding nursery places for children once they turn two.
Finding school places if children have had to move and leave their previous school.
Signing children up for local GP services.
Play therapy with our dedicated children’s worker Faye, both 1:1 and in small groups.
Activities and trips to build positive life experiences.
Every child deserves to celebrate their birthday! We make sure to hold a birthday party for every child and give them a present to help them feel settled with us.

Read the Twins’ story

A child is painting a wooden craft piece at a table covered with floral-patterned paper. Scissors and colorful paint containers are nearby.

The Activities Programme

This is an example of our current activities on offer. The programme is constantly evolving, shaped by our residents’ needs and wishes.

Exercise classes to encourage healthy habits
Craft classes like jewellery making
Gardening and learning more about nature

Getting involved with the local community and other charities
Art classes, including painting with Bridget Rush
Employability programmes to help get back into work

“I didn’t know I could paint! All my life I’ve been told I can’t do this. I can’t do that. I’m not good at this. I’m not good at that. But now, I look forward to the painting classes. It feels like shedding a skin, when you walk through these doors.”

Vicky, Gilgal resident

Read Vicky’s story