The Richmond Women’s Hub has celebrated its first anniversary.
Since opening in early 2024, the hub, located at the Vineyard Community Centre in Richmond, has provided support to women affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence, trauma, and other complex life experiences.
The hub has become a vital resource for many, offering a lifeline and a springboard towards healing and renewal.
Every Wednesday, women from across the borough come together for a day of connection and skill-building.
The day kicks off at 11am with the Sisterhood Choir, a joyful and therapeutic singing session that fosters expression and emotional release through music.
This is followed by the Sisterhood Sanctuary, a nurturing space with creative wellbeing activities such as art, sewing, pampering, and crafts.
A free vegetarian lunch is also provided.
Beyond these core sessions, the hub offers various services aimed at enhancing women's emotional, practical, and social wellbeing.
These include psychotherapy sessions, monthly visits from a community nurse, and art therapy.
Support is also available from a caseworker from homelessness charity Glass Door.
There are also wellbeing workshops, food bank resources, and skills-based sessions such as English lessons and retail training.
The hub works with Twickenham-based charity SEEN to deliver workshops focused on building self-esteem and making healthy relationship choices.
Candice Roggeveen, women’s services manager at Voices of Hope, which runs the initiative, said: "We want to help women build self-confidence and equip them with the skills needed to transition into independent living."
In February 2025, the Richmond Women’s Hub marked its first anniversary with a special event, coinciding with International Women’s Day.
The event celebrated the resilience and growth of the women who have been supported by the hub over the past year.
The hub’s involvement in the Pearl Project, an initiative honouring women who have overcome violence against women and girls, was among the standout achievements of the year.
Five of the nine women selected as "Pearls" in the first year of the project were from the Richmond hub.
One of these Pearls, Ann, shared her story after 17 years of silence following an emotionally abusive marriage.
She credited the Richmond Women’s Hub and the Pearl Project for helping her rediscover her voice and confidence.
She said: "Being a Pearl was a huge honour—I felt cared for and truly heard.
"The support I received helped me share my story, and that brought me immense relief."
Looking ahead, the Richmond Women’s Hub remains committed to serving as a space where all women are welcome.
The team continues to invite new guests and volunteers to join, and is always open to building new partnerships with local organisations that share the mission of uplifting women.
Neeraja Jyothikumar, the hub coordinator, said: "Any woman is welcome—whether you come as a guest, a volunteer, or someone just looking for a safe place to be.
"We’re always open to growing this community."
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