News, Politics

Victorian-built home of Nottingham women’s charity given extra protections

By Joe Locker, Local Democracy Reporter

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The Victorian-built home of a charity for women in Nottingham has been awarded extra protections as it looks to make improvements.

Nottingham Women’s Centre has been based at Chaucer Street since 1985, from which it provides a support service to help women across the city and county.

The charity offers training, low-cost counselling, educational courses and other support.

The services and activities help around 700 women every year with mental health needs, as well as a service for women offenders, those facing extreme poverty, or escaping abuse.

Nottingham City Council has now designated the site an ‘asset of community value’.

This means if the land or building is put up for sale, it will be subject to more development restrictions and charitable groups are given the chance to bid for ownership.

It comes as the charity looks to purchase the building to make upgrades to its home property.

Louisa Matthews, the Chief Executive, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “This designation highlights the value Nottingham Women’s Centre, along with our sister organisations that operate from here, bring to our communities and our city.

“For decades, this building has been a safe, welcoming space for women — a place of support, connection, and empowerment for those across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.”

According to council documents, Nottingham Women’s Centre is looking to purchase the property.

The council says the charity intends to undertake an initial building survey and, subject to having the funding, make “immediate improvements to upgrade the property”.

“They are likely to conduct an appeal to local trusts and foundations to secure funding for this purpose, as well as maximise funding through their charitable status and further self-generating income,” documents say.

In granting it the new status, the council says it is considered there is sufficient evidence to conclude the use of 30 Chaucer Street by the charity would further the social wellbeing or social interests of the local community.

“We invite local women to become part of our community,” Ms Matthews added.

“Whether you’re seeking support through our casework or therapeutic services, looking to join one of our many activities and courses, or simply hoping to meet other women with shared experiences — there’s a place for you here.

“You can also volunteer with us, fund raise, or make use of our unique women’s library. We are a space led by women, for women, and we are deeply grateful to the vibrant, resilient community that makes us who we are. Come and be part of it.”