Leamington based group working with vulnerable women set to open countryside retreat - but it needs the public's help
A Leamington-based group which works with vulnerable women is set to open a new countryside retreat – and it needs the public’s help to get the doors open.
Community Interest Company (CIC) The Esther Project, supports women who are recovering from trauma, domestic abuse, addiction, homelessness and other social disadvantages.
It has a dedicated women's hub as well accommodation at the seven-bedroomed Esther House – and currently volunteers are renovating a two-bed flat for use.
Now, work is underway to prepare Esther Retreat – another seven-bedroom property in a rural location for opening in early 2027.
The retreat will offer professional counselling and recovery programmes, holistic therapeutic support and land and animal-based therapy.
“This is such an exciting step forward for us,” said Esther Project founder Lianne Kirkman.
“We have been so fortunate to find the perfect building to meet the proven, urgent need, and in the perfect locale where women can be temporarily housed in an environment of complete calm and safety.
“This isn't just a building, it is a sanctuary designed for healing and transformation.
“Thanks to the wonderful support of the local community, the Esther Project is able to support many women, but there is still a large and rising number who need help.
“The retreat will help us plug that gap and provide a calm, restorative space where women can finally exhale, feel safe and begin rebuilding their lives.”
The team at the Esther Project said that since 2024, more than 180 women have benefited from its care and support and that the retreat will help bring that support to a new level.
Lianne added: “The retreat will give women the chance to step away from complex lives and spend up to 12 months in a safe, peaceful environment where they can reset, recover, and begin rebuilding their lives from the ground up.
“But we need more help to get our doors open.
“Thanks to some incredible early support from local organisations, community groups, and funders, we’re already on our way.
“The amazing Millward Charitable Trust has pledged £30,000 of match funding, which means that every pound given is doubled: £10 becomes £20, £25 becomes £50, £100 becomes £200.
“We are challenging our community to help us raise £30,000 – which will instantly become £60,000.”
Donations can be made at: https://localgiving.org/fundraising/Esther-Retreat