Women Side by Side (360G-cabinetoffice-GA-199144)

The circle is a project for woman over 45 who are disadvantaged, lonely, and isolated. Targeting those with multiple disadvantage; mental health problems, homelessness, substance misuse, abuse and violence, offending , family breakdown or a combination of lower level issues.For one year the project will support the process of peer support groups within North Kent locations which have deprivation and a high urban population; Chatham, Dartford, and Gillingham. The groups will focus on peer support via weekly meetings which may involve social activities, workshops, or well being activities. The participants steer the direction of the project and leadership roles rotate throughout the participants.The project's process is supported by one female worker who remains available and consistent throughout its duration. The aims are to achieve empowerment, improvement in self esteem and confidence, and a peer support network. Hence focus is orientated towards well being, mental health resilience, and creating dialogue with peers.