Changing Lives, Saving Lives: Women Centred Working – an evidence-based model from the UK

Relative disadvantage and deprivation are significant problems for vulnerable women in urban areas in England. Despite experiencing a range of complex health needs such women do not always meet the required thresholds for statutory help or if they do, they are often unable to engage with the requirements of these service providers. Third sector (or non-governmental) organisations have often supported women in need but operate time-limited programmes due to funding restrictions. In a climate where statutory support systems are being systematically weakened, third sector organisations are playing a more significant role in supporting vulnerable women. This paper will present key findings from several evaluations of projects delivered by non-governmental organisations which are designed to make a difference to women’s lives. The findings cohere around what works providing evidence of effective approaches to supporting vulnerable women with complex needs. A transferable model of women-centred working is presented.