Dagenham

Our centre in Dagenham, called 'the Vineries', helps young women who are economically, educationally and socially disadvantaged or at risk, vulnerable and isolated.

We established the Vineries in 1990 as there was a need for a womens community centre in this deprived area which has an exceptionally high number of lone parents and teenage mums. Based in Dagenham we also work across Barking to reach more young women.

Many of the young women aged 11 to 30 we meet are unemployed or on low incomes, live in poor housing, have few or no formal qualifications and are single or teenage mothers. Some are depressed, lonely, drug dependent or victims of abuse.

Our centre gives these women a place to make friends in a safe and friendly environment, where they can learn new things and be themselves. Our crèche means they can bring their children and still take part in all the activities we offer.

Young women at the Vineries take part in programmes and workshops to help them move forward in their personal life. They learn to gain confidence and make informed choices for themselves and their children. They get a different outlook to life and become aware of how to make change happen.

Heartfelt thanks to all our funders including: Deutsche Bank, Neighbourhood Support Fund, Barking and Dagenham Borough Council, Jack Petchey, Single Regeneration Budget and "Help a London Child".