A MUM of seven has launched a support group for isolated women struggling in the community.
Every Voice Equal (EVE) is the brainchild of grandmother Anji Hall, from Heyford Park, near Bicester.
The 49-year-old wanted to do something for women in her area who felt isolated or felt they did not have the time, money or confidence to get involved in social activities.
EVE, launched at Heyford Park Community Centre, offers everything from cooking, sewing and knitting groups, to therapy sessions and exercise classes.
Ms Hall, who has three children and four stepchildren, said: “There are a lot of young mums on this estate who can’t access facilities outside it.
“One woman I spoke to said she hadn’t had her hair cut for nine months, so we came up with the idea to get a hairdresser in once a fortnight.
“Now mums can do simple things like get their hair cut, knowing their children are being looked after.
“We chose the name EVE because ‘every voice is equal’, is an important message for us, and because Eve was nature’s first woman.”
Ms Hall has also set up exercise classes for people in wheelchairs and advice sessions on tackling depression and sorting out money problems.
She also offers tips on how to tackle the sadness many women experience when their children leave home.
The project, which is supported by Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford and Cherwell Valley College, will also run courses in maths and English for people looking to access further education.
Ms Hall said the centre had been designed like a home so that women could feel relaxed while discussing difficult subjects.
She added: “It makes it a bit more comfortable for them to discuss difficult topics such as infertility, marriage problems, or what to do about children with drug additions.
“We’re not therapists, we’re just women with life experience who can offer an ear.
“I’ve had violent relationships, and I’ve had obsessive compulsive disorder most of my life, but I’m still here.
“Women are amazing people, and we just want them to know they shouldn’t give up, because there is always someone there.”
Visit the community centre at Heyford Park, near Bicester. For further information call Anji Hall on 01869 232461 or email eveproject@ btinternet.com
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