Yahoo News New women’s group Girls Night Out promotes physical and emotional wellbeing
A new women’s support group has been set up in response to a need identified in the area.
One Voice, a voluntary community-based charity working to make a difference within the Immingham, Habrough and Stallingborough area, has launched Girls Night Out with the help of National Lottery funding. For any female over 18, it is described as a “weekly space to empower each other and encourage positive physical and emotional wellbeing”.
Meetings are held every Monday, from 7pm to 9pm, at Blossom Way Sports and Social Club, Immingham. It is free to attend and you can just turn up.
READ MORE: Man sadly found dead in van at retail park - police appeal for information
READ MORE: Two arrested after traffic officers carry out pursuit on M180
Elaine Norton is chair of One Voice, which was launched in 2009 and works in partnership with others to bring about the betterment of the local community. This includes through different projects and activities, by raising awareness and building relationships with residents and service providers.
Elaine said: “Girls Night Out has been set up in response to community feedback and suggestions. The sessions are designed to be fun and relaxed and, most importantly, participant led; it’s all very spontaneous and not prescriptive.
“Each meeting will be shaped around the ideas and needs of those attending that night.” Elaine said the idea for Girls Night Out was brought forward by Sarah Shotbolt, who previously ran a “kitchen disco” initiative that was enjoyed by local women.
Fluctuating numbers at the classes, with reliance on attendance for funds, was one of the reasons the classes closed. “But everybody missed it,” said Elaine, “and it came up at One Voice about what the ladies had gained from it.
“The idea behind it is, when you go on a night out, you feel good, you have a chat, you have a dance so you are getting a bit of exercise that releases those feel-good endorphins. However, not everyone has friends to go out with.
“Girls Night Out gives everyone a chance to join in, whether they are coming alone or with someone. It’s a relaxed environment, there are qualified counsellors on hand if you want to talk to someone, there’s music playing and you can add your suggestions to the play list.”
Elaine said: “We’ve already engaged 67 women. Many of them are returning each week. It’s a place where women can just have time for themselves.
“Some will just turn up, dance for an hour, then go home. While they are dancing, they are chatting to other people.
“I can actually say this is one of the most simple projects One Voice has done, but it’s one of the most effective.”
You can find out more about One Voice on Facebook and the charity’s website offers a timetable of activities going on across the Immingham, Habrough and Stallingborough area. Anyone wanting to make contact before attending a Girls Night Out meeting can text 07513 612964.
