The Magdalene Group in Norwich has been supporting some of the most marginalised women and young people in society for the past 30 years. CEO Suzi Heybourne looks forward to two anniversary events taking place this month
Who are you, and what do you do?
I’m the CEO of The Magdalene Group, an organisation dedicated to supporting women and girls affected by abuse, exploitation, sexual violence, coercion and grooming. We work tirelessly to offer them a path to safety, recovery and empowerment.
What is the background of The Magdalene Group, and what is your role within it?
The Magdalene Group has been at the forefront of supporting vulnerable women and girls for over 30 years. Our mission is to help those who are often hidden from society – victims of exploitation and abuse – by offering them a safe space and the tools they need to rebuild their lives. As CEO, I oversee our strategy, lead our team, and ensure that our services continue to evolve to meet the needs of those we support, whilst raising our voice wider to ensure that we can end all violence against women and girls all women in our society.
How has it helped women and girls over the past 30 years?
Over the last three decades, The Magdalene Group has reached some of the most marginalised and vulnerable individuals. We have helped countless women and girls find a way out of exploitation, abuse and trauma by providing vital emotional, practical, and psychological interventions. Many of those we’ve supported were living hidden lives, so low that that no longer knew how or where to seek help. With our outreach services and open-door approach, we have engaged and built relationships that empower the women to regain control of their lives, access services and move towards a brighter future. Our work with girls who have experienced exploitation is tailored and addresses key issues of a healthy relationship, enabling them to understand consent and helping to break the cycle of damaging relationships into their future.
How are you marking the 30th anniversary year?
This year has been incredibly special for us, filled with reflection and celebration. One of our key events was the Midnight Strut, a walk that brought over 100 women together to walk through the streets to raise awareness about the issues we tackle and ending with a midnight vigil to honour the lives of 108 women’s lives lost through male violence.
The Magdalene Group marks 30 years this month. What events are coming up in October, and how can people get involved?
On October 11th we’re co-hosting a significant joint conference with Leeway, another organisation that has been supporting victims of domestic abuse violence for 50 years. This event will bring together experts and advocates to share knowledge and discuss ways to further address violence against women and girls (VAWG).
We’re also hosting the Pearly Ball at the Assembly Rooms, on 18th October at 7pm a prestigious fundraising event that still has a few tickets available. It’s a moment of pride for us, as a small grassroots charity, to celebrate our work on such a high-profile stage. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on the quiet, but powerful, impact we’ve had over the years.
What other ways can people show their support for The Magdalene Group?
Raising awareness is crucial. We’d love to see more people and organisations speaking out against violence in all its forms and advocating for the rights of women and girls. Additionally, we’ve developed a training program for businesses, particularly in the night-time economy, bars, pubs and clubs, to help them recognise and address situations of unwanted sexual attention and how to respond within their venues. It’s important that we all take collective responsibility for creating safe environments.
What are your hopes for the future in continuing to tackle VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls)?
Our hope is to expand our reach and continue breaking the silence around VAWG. We want to ensure that no woman or girl feels alone, unheard, or without options. By raising awareness, enhancing education and training programs, and advocating for stronger protections, we aim to help create a society where women and girls are safe, empowered and respected.
The Magdalene Group marks 30 years this month. The Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women & Girls conference takes place at the Airport Holiday Inn, Norwich, on Friday October 11, 2024. The 30th Anniversary Pearly Ball takes place at the Assembly House, Norwich on Friday October 18, 2024. If you would be interested to attend the either event, please contact support@magdalenegroup.org. Visit The Magdalene Group.
Featured image – supplied
Leave a Reply