Brighton Women’s Centre (BWC) is calling attention to the growing need for dedicated women-only mental health services in Brighton & Hove. With a 50-year legacy of supporting women across Sussex, the report shows how BWC has been at the forefront of providing trauma-informed, holistic support to women from all backgrounds facing complex mental health challenges.
For the past five years, BWC has been a key partner in the UOK mental health partnership, commissioned by Southdown to deliver specialist women-only services. These include a Mental Health Support Co-ordinator, weekly women’s wellbeing Hubs, and crèche services for mothers of young children. Through these services, BWC offers vital support to women who are most vulnerable to falling through the gaps in statutory mental health services, including those with a history of trauma and abuse.
Why Women-Only Services Are Essential
Women are significantly more likely than men to report mental health issues, including anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders. The risk of mental health challenges is even higher for women who have experienced trauma or abuse, with a higher likelihood of self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
Statistics show that women’s mental health needs are distinct and often underrepresented. For example, women are twice as likely to self-harm as men, with rates of self-harm especially high among young women aged 16-24. There is also a strong connection between domestic abuse, which disproportionately affects women, and the risk of mental ill-health.
BWC highlights the importance of gender-specific services, especially for women who have experienced domestic or sexual abuse. Many women report feeling unsafe or uncomfortable seeking help in mixed-gender environments, and BWC’s women-only spaces provide a safe and supportive environment where they can receive the care they need.
A Holistic, Trauma-Informed Approach
The report highlights how BWC’s services are designed to address the multifaceted needs of women facing complex mental health challenges. The organisation’s trauma-informed approach ensures that women receive support that considers their unique circumstances and experiences, helping them to rebuild their lives step by step.
Key services include:
- In-depth case work support: Through its Mental Health Support Co-ordinator, BWC provides 1:1 mental health support tailored to the needs of each woman. Sessions are held in safe, women-only spaces, and continue for as long as necessary.
- Weekly wellbeing Hubs: These hubs offer a range of advice, signposting, and peer support in a welcoming, women-only environment. The hubs also serve as a gateway to other services such as counselling, housing support, and peer-to-peer services.
- Low-cost childcare: BWC’s onsite crèche ensures that women, particularly those without family support, can access the mental health services they need without the barrier of childcare.
Urgent Need for Continued Support
With mental health issues on the rise and funding cuts looming, BWC urges local stakeholders to recognise the critical importance of their services.
Brighton & Hove has above-average levels of mental health issues, and the need for safe, women-only environments where women can access trauma-informed care is greater than ever.
