Cambridge Women’s Resources Centre launches £15K appeal to save vital counselling service
Women in crisis could be left with nowhere to turn as Cambridge Women’s Resources Centre (CWRC) issues an urgent £15,000 appeal to save its counselling service.
The appeal comes as the number of women being referred to the city’s only women’s centre continues to escalate whilefunding fails to meet a deepening need in Cambridge.
CWRC, the grassroots charity which has provided support, education, advocacy and opportunities for almost 45 years, is reaching out to the community to help sustain its women’s counselling service.
As the only dedicated women’s centre in the region, CWRC is facing a critical lack of essential funding at a time when more women than ever are seeking help. Professional referrals have also surged for CWRC to provide support for womenliving with the impact of trauma, poor housing, domestic abuse, isolation and poverty – women who would otherwise have nowhere to turn.
“CWRC risks being unable to continue providing counselling for those who need it most,” said charity CEO Harriet Morgan. “For many women, CWRC is more than a service, it’s a lifeline. A place they come to be supported and safe. Now, the lifeline they rely on is itself at risk.
“Without immediate funding, the centre may be forced to cut or lose its counselling provision entirely, leaving vulnerable women without the help they desperately need and deserve. We are calling on Cambridge companies, local organisations, community fundraisers and individual donors to please help us reach our £15k target.”
CWRC provides free at point of access counselling for women who often have no other support available. The impact of counselling can be a life-changing process, helping women navigate complex and challenging times with greater resilience, stability and hope.
“The women who come into my counselling room bring themselves exactly as they are,” said Sue, Counsellor, MBACP Accredited. “We can reflect, talk and work together to begin the process of healing. It is safe, it is non-judgemental and it is a space for them to be heard.”
CWRC’s appeal launches on 11th May to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.
While the number of women supported by CWRC has increased by 55%, there is no equivalent increase in funding to meet rising demands and extensive waiting lists. Despite these pressures, the impact made by Cambridge Women’s Resources Centre last year reveals:
• 87% of women report improved mental health and wellbeing
• 77% increased confidence and self-worth
• 85% reduced isolation and loneliness
• 95% of women affected by abuse feel better supported.
The loss of this vital counselling service will have a lasting impact on women, their families and the wider community. Your donations can help CWRC continue providing an essential lifeline for women in Cambridge.
Support the appeal here: CWRC Counselling Campaign
Women supported by the service said:
For information, images and interviews, please contact
Hellena Barnes – Communications Officer E: hellena@CWRC.org.uk T: 01223 321148
