Caritas Bakhita House is grateful to the The National Lottery Community Fund for its support towards core staffing costs, helping the service continue to provide specialist care for women who have experienced trafficking and modern slavery.
Since opening in 2015, Caritas Bakhita House has provided safety, healing and hope to 232 women from 52 countries, as well as welcoming 16 babies into the world. Around 20 women stay at the house each year, receiving personalised, trauma-informed support as they begin to rebuild their lives.
A dedicated team of staff and volunteers provide compassionate, victim-centred support every day. Their work has also helped women pursue justice, contributing to 20+ prison sentences for traffickers to date.
Karen Anstiss, Head of Bakhita House says:
“Bakhita House is often the first step on the road to recovery. It helps the women to build the foundations for their future life free of exploitation. It brings not only safety but a sense of community and belonging, equipping each woman with the tools she needs to progress.”
Community and belonging are central to life at the house. Guests from many different nationalities live together in the house, supported by a core staff team and local volunteers who share their time and skills to support women in recovery. The women are also encouraged to build independence through English classes, volunteering and employment opportunities.
Importantly, the service is shaped by the voices of the women themselves through regular feedback sessions and one-to-one support meetings. This user-led approach helps ensure every woman feels heard, valued and empowered during her recovery journey.
Thanks to the support of The National Lottery Community Fund and National Lottery players, Caritas Bakhita House can continue helping women move from trauma towards safety, dignity and hope for the future.
