A support centre in Kettering has helped three times more women since receiving a grant from Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone.
The Kettering Women’s Centre has been able to extend its opening hours from three to four days a week, boosting the number of women it supports each month from 30 to an average of 100 after benefitting from the Safe and Sound Communities Fund in June 2025.
Run by C2C Social Action, the Centre provides accessible, trauma-informed support through one-to-one sessions, group workshops and drop-ins to women who are at risk of or involved in the criminal justice system.
The Women’s Centre aims to reduce reoffending and improve the wellbeing of women by giving them a safe environment where they can address mental and physical needs and get practical support with finances and accommodation.
The Commissioner’s grant funding of £9,996 allowed C2C Social Action to expand on the services they provide and support the running of the Centre.
Kettering Women’s Centre also provides space for partner organisations to work from, so that women coming into the Centre can receive all-round support in one place to help get them back on their feet.
C2C Social Action Chief Executive Officer, Michelle Shaw, said:
“We were delighted to receive this grant from the OPFCC towards our Kettering Women’s Centre costs.
“This really has helped women turn their lives around, move away from crime, poverty, abuse and exploitation, and bring hope to them and their families.”
The Women’s Centre now aims to open five days a week to meet demand and help more women.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone is thrilled that the grant has meant that so many women have been able to receive the support they need.
She said: “The grant I awarded to the Kettering Women’s Centre has contributed to helping so many women who have been through the criminal justice system and need support in rebuilding their lives.
“This vital service is helping to reduce reoffending and provide women it supports with better futures.
“Helping organisations that make a real difference is exactly what the Safe and Sound Communities Fund is designed for, and I am proud that we have been able to support them.”
