Women’s Services
POPS believe women should have access to personalised, trauma-informed support at any stage of their journey through the criminal justice system. Through the Farida Women’s Centre we provide a warm, welcoming environment where women can build confidence, and connect with others in a space designed just for them.
Farida Women’s Centre
POPS’ Farida Women’s Centre is a dedicated, women-only space in Oldham, where women can find the support, advice, and activities they need to navigate their journey, no matter what stage they are at within the system.
Farida, meaning “unique and precious,” reflects the value we place on each woman we support. Our goal is to empower and uplift women, offering a safe, accessible and welcoming environment where they can rebuild their confidence, access crucial resources, and connect with others who understand their experiences.
We have been delivering support for women affected by the criminal justice system since 2014. In 2016 we became part of the Greater Manchester Women’s Support Alliance (GMWSA), a collaboration of nine women’s centres across Greater Manchester, who take a trauma-responsive, holistic approach to support. Through our collective work, we provide a range of vital support services designed to address the complex needs of women, particularly those involved in or affected by the criminal justice system.
What We Do
Our centre offers a range of services and activities designed to meet the specific needs of women affected by the criminal justice system. Whether you’re looking for emotional support, practical advice, or opportunities to learn and grow, we are here to help.
Key services include:
Safe, Women-Only Space
We provide a confidential and supportive environment where women can feel safe to share their experiences without judgment and receive one-to-one support tailored to their needs.
Personal Support and Empowerment
Our team works closely with women to help develop self-esteem, strengthen self-worth, build resilience, and overcome the challenges they face which may include mental health issues, intimate partner violence or substance misuse.
Advice and Guidance
We offer practical advice on a range of issues including housing, debt management, employment, and training opportunities and make referrals where necessary to other services that can offer further support in these areas.
Workshops and Activities
We run a variety of workshops and activities that are focused on developing key life skills. These include building self-esteem, improving communication skills, and enhancing resilience.
Women-Only Employability Support
Our women-only employability support sessions offer tailored support for women who are ready to explore employment or training opportunities. We assist with CV writing, job search strategies, interview preparation, and more.
Family Support Services
Through POPS’ family support services, women can access additional support for their families. Whether it’s helping children cope with a parent’s incarceration or navigating family dynamics, our services ensure that the whole family is supported.
User Forums
We facilitate user forums for women and their families, providing a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and offer mutual support. These forums are an opportunity for women to have their voices heard and contribute to improving services for others.
Access to Other Services
With Probation and Turning Point co-located at the Women’s Centre, women subject to a community order can access support from our team from the earliest stages of their order as well as being able to access specialist drug and alcohol support.
What Women Tell Us
The impact of our services is clear. According to a 2019 evaluation by Manchester Metropolitan University, women involved in the criminal justice system who accessed services through the GMWSA reported feeling welcome, comfortable, and safe within the women’s centres. This sense of security fosters the development of trusting relationships with staff, volunteers, and other women, creating a supportive community where women can rebuild their lives.
If you or someone you know would benefit from the services at the Farida Women’s Centre, please contact our team.
We are here to support you every step of the way.