Anawim exists to support women with multiple and complex needs across Birmingham, enabling them to lead stable and fulfilling lives with their children and families. To do this they help and support women over 18 who are involved in and around prostitution, offending behaviour, drug abuse and sexual exploitation to move their lives forward. They provide viable alternatives to custody which increase self-worth, recognise potential and offer hope. They aim to keep families together where appropriate; to empower each woman and child towards independence, regular employment and dignity. To raise each woman’s self-awareness, trust and responsibility towards herself, her children and the wider community and ensure the wider community are better informed about issues affecting the client group. They work towards restorative and reparative principles, delivered in a safe woman only space. Anawim believes that women should be encouraged to exercise genuine choice, enabling them to access services appropriate to their unique requirements.

Anawim staff go to where the women are: on the streets of Birmingham, in prison, mainly HMP Foston Hall, Drake Hall, in court and in Bail hostels. The women receive one to one support on the full range of issues which affect them, access to a full timetable of courses and activities, opportunities to socialise and relax, practical help with clothes, food and other items, as well as contact sessions for children in care.

Case study

Please seek permission from Women’s Breakout or Anawim prior to using any extracts.