The Women In Safe Homes (WISH) service was at Maria’s side at her time of need. WISH is a partnership between Nacro, Manchester Women’s Aid and Resonance, providing temporary accommodation to women with a history of rough sleeping or who need accommodation because they are fleeing and surviving domestic abuse.
A difficult start
When Maria arrived at WISHÂ accommodation, she had recently fled an abusive husband and was very new to the UK. She spoke little English and was understandably quiet, withdrawn and unsure of herself.
During the first few weeks, it was difficult to identify what support Maria needed. She had no clear goals or plans for the future beyond wanting to learn English. Having experienced significant trauma and upheaval, Maria needed time and space to begin rebuilding her sense of safety and stability.
Our team initially focused on practical support and helping Maria navigate unfamiliar systems. Staff accompanied her to Jobcentre appointments, where she was being encouraged to seek work despite not yet feeling ready. Recognising this, we supported Maria to focus instead on developing her English and building everyday life skills. She was enrolled in a local English for Speakers of Other Language (ESOL) course so she could begin improving her language skills at a pace that felt manageable.
Building confidence
As Maria began to feel safer and more settled in WISH accommodation, she gradually started to think about her future. With time to process and grieve the relationship she’d fled, she began working closely with a specialist WISH support worker who helped her rebuild her confidence and believe in herself.
Maria became motivated to develop new skills and to start working towards employment. She took part in cooking sessions and ‘Talk English’ groups to improve her language and practical skills. Staff also accompanied her to the local library and community centre, where she began attending activities including a job club and digital skills drop-in sessions.
WISH also helped Maria apply for a grant, which meant she received a tablet. This made a significant difference and she was able to complete an online English grammar course, begin writing a CV, and independently explore housing options for the future. Maria started bidding weekly for properties through Manchester Move while also learning about private renting.
Maria continued to build connections in the community. She attends church every week and regularly joins the WISH cooking group. These sessions helped her develop independent living skills such as budgeting and meal planning, while also giving her opportunities to meet new people and feel part of a supportive community.
New foundations
Maria’s engagement with ESOL classes mean her English has significantly improved, and with it her confidence and independence. She continued bidding for properties through Manchester Move and in was offered a new-build home through a social housing provider. Maria accepted the offer and successfully moved into her own home. WISH supported Maria during the transition, helping her move her belonging and set up her new property.
Even after leaving WISH accommodation, Maria has continued to receive outreach support. Maria sourced many items of furniture herself, while WISH supported her with flooring and helped set up utilities and update her Universal Credit to ensure she receives the correct support. Staff also assisted her to register with a GP and explore volunteering opportunities with a local community group. Today, Maria feels safe, happy and optimistic about the future. She is now looking forward to finding employment and continuing to build her life in her new community.
Achievments to be proud of
With WISH by her side, Maria has:
- Improved her English language and essential life skills.
- Increased her confidence and independence.
- Successful moved into permanent accommodation.
- Set up and sustained independent living, with support.
- Made progress towards employment.
