Sanctuary and Freedom: The Transformational Power of Spaces for Women and Girls

Introduction

This briefing looks at why women‑only spaces matter for women and girls who’ve faced violence, abuse or other inequalities. It shares learning from services funded through the Women and Girls Initiative (WGI) on the importance of creating the right physical and emotional spaces to transform the lives of women and girls.

It aims to help funders, decision makers and frontline organisations understand how safe spaces support recovery, confidence and connection.

Findings

The briefing found that women-only spaces help women and girls feel safe, listened to and respected. These spaces give people time to rest, rebuild confidence and regain a sense of control. That these are spaces run by women, for women is considered vital by many organisations and the women who use them. These are dedicated spaces in which it becomes possible to begin to feel safe.

Emotional spaces, which are places where women can talk openly and be supported, were shown to be just as important as physical rooms or buildings. Many women said they do not feel safe in public spaces because of threats, harassment or discrimination. Black and minoritised women also described facing racism in addition to gendered violence.

During the pandemic, online spaces helped people stay connected but could not replace the warmth and reassurance of face-to-face support.