At Gifted Women, we believe the most important stories are the ones that belong to the women we support. They’re not always straightforward. They don’t wrap up neatly. But they’re real – and full of strength, change, setbacks, progress, and possibility.
The stories below have been shared with permission. Some names have been changed.
Jen came to us while rebuilding her life in early recovery, after leaving an abusive relationship and spending time in a refuge. Her dream was to work in retail, but she didn’t know how to get there. After completing our employability course, she went on to do a placement at Boringdon Park Golf Club. That led to her first paid job in years – and eventually to landing her dream role in retail.
“Just wanted to let you know I’ve been offered my dream job! So happy! Couldn’t have done it without Gifted Women. I did all the steps myself – including a video interview – and used all the skills I learned with you. Also, I’m celebrating being 1.5 years sober this month!”
Emily had never worked before. She was isolated, struggling with her mental health, and didn’t feel able to travel into the city alone. With gentle encouragement from a peer mentor, she began attending sessions and slowly found her confidence. Gifted Women referred Emily to a teaching assistant course – a qualification which she successfully completed. She went on to volunteer at a primary school, secured a job as a Mealtime Assistant, and later progressed to a Teaching Assistant role, supporting children who need 1:1 support.
“I’ve completed my first term of paid work. The teacher gave me these chocolates and flowers as a thank you.”
Lana joined Gifted Women at 19, after being involved in the criminal justice system from a young age and experiencing a difficult period of homelessness. She found group settings difficult, but with adjustments she pushed through and kept going, with lots of support provided on a 1:1 basis. With encouragement, she completed a work placement at a local charity and secured her first tenancy and a safe home to call her own. Today, she’s in paid work and has is completing qualifications to enable her to progress into leadership roles.
“Without the ongoing support of Gifted Women, I probably would have gone back to offending. Thank you for believing in me and inspiring me to be more like you.”
After over a decade of problematic substance use, homelessness, and involvement in the criminal justice system, Amber arrived at Gifted Women ready to start again. She completed our course, went on to do a placement, and was soon offered a temporary paid role. Since then, she’s completed multiple training courses, worked in support roles, and recently celebrated 8 months in a job she loves.
“Work is my happy place. I’ve found my niche and I love it.”
Gemma came to Gifted Women after experiencing a cycle of imprisonment over several years. When she joined us, she was still rebuilding her life and confidence. Over time, she completed our programme, reconnected with others, and started thinking about her future. She recently celebrated a huge milestone – one full year out of prison with no issues, for the first time in over a decade.
Gemma also completed a work experience placement, multiple training courses and is now using her lived experience to help make change happen in the systems that failed her. She hopes to support other women who’ve been through similar things.
“I believed that no one would accept me for the person I am, and the skills that I can bring to any potential employment. I no longer feel afraid. I feel safe. I feel loved. The women at Gifted Women have helped me find my strength again.”
You can also hear from one of the women we’ve supported – Holly – who recently shared her story on BBC Radio Devon.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. If you think you’re ready to take a small first step, we’re here.
