Fun in the sun for women's hostel

Women and children at a hostel in Leicester enjoyed a summer fun day last week.

Residents were treated to a barbeque, tombola and raffle, while their children enjoyed games, face painting and planting flowers.

Kirton Lodge, run by Leicester-based LHA Support Services, offers safe and supportive accommodation for women and children who urgently need somewhere to go because of domestic violence, harassment or being made homeless.

The event was also an open day for partners of LHA Support Services. Guests from Leicester City Council, social services and Sure Start children’s centres among others, had the chance to meet residents and provide information about local services available.

Resident Karina said: “It was a brilliant day. Family and friends came and everyone had a really good time. There was lots of information and leaflets available too, from the various organisations that came, and it was useful to speak to them.”

Portia, who also stays at the hostel with her three year old son, added: “It was lots of fun. My son especially enjoyed planting the flowers and strawberries.”

At Kirton Lodge, self-contained and fully equipped flats allow residents to live independently. Specialist services help women re-build their lives signposting ways to training and further education. There are also communal facilities, including an outdoor play area for children.

Phil Allen, the Scheme Manager said: “The day was a great success. We raised £100 on the raffle, and it was an excellent opportunity for residents to socialise and find out what other help is available locally.

“LHA Support Services is now planning to host at least four such events every year, each with a different cultural theme, to celebrate the diversity of our residents at Kirton Lodge.”

Professional staff are on hand at the hostel 24 hours a day. Every resident has a support worker and an individual support plan, to help them gain the confidence and skills they need to live independently in the future in their own home.

Individual cultural, religious and social needs are respected, and help with translation can be arranged for women not fluent in English.