Halton Women's Supper Club Secures Funding for Free Monthly Gatherings
A grassroots volunteer-led project in Halton, dedicated to creating an inclusive and safe space for women, has received a significant funding boost to cover 12 months of free supper clubs. The Fortuna Female Society, which supports women across the Halton area, was awarded £1,980 from homebuilder Redrow to fund the food costs for their monthly gatherings held at St Marie's Church in Widnes.
Building Connections and Combating Loneliness
Founded in 2018 after two successful annual events aimed at highlighting challenges and raising donations to tackle period poverty, the Fortuna Female Society has evolved into a vibrant hub offering a full calendar of activities. The project's core mission is to provide safe spaces where women can connect, rise, and thrive together.
Laura Bevan, founder and trustee of the society, shared her inspiration: "I felt profoundly lonely after having my children and returning to the workplace, and I realised many women experienced similar feelings due to limited opportunities to socialise in a safe environment and try new activities."
"Conversations at our initial event revealed a strong desire among women of all ages to meet more regularly," Bevan continued. "This led to the formation of a group that offers women the chance to come together and explore different activities."
The Popular Supper Club Initiative
The supper club has emerged as the most popular activity facilitated by the society, attracting between 20 and 30 women each month. These sessions are free to attend and open to women aged 18 and above who either live or work in Halton.
"Many participants have shared that this is their only night out, or that the friendships formed at the supper club have encouraged them to engage in other activities," Bevan noted.
Each supper club often includes an uplifting group activity and serves as a gateway for families to learn about other programmes offered by the society. These encompass a diverse range of options, including:
- Creative arts and crafts workshops
- Wellbeing sessions
- Let Her Shine sessions for teen and tween girls and their female carers
- The Womankind peer support café for women affected by domestic abuse
Corporate Support for Community Wellbeing
Amanda Jones, head of sales at Redrow NW, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: "Learning about the Fortuna Female Society and supporting their free supper club has been a fantastic experience. Their dedication to creating an open, barrier-free space for women to connect is a crucial step in reducing social isolation and enhancing wellbeing."
"Our community funds are specifically designed to uplift projects like this, and we are delighted to support them as they continue their impactful work," Jones added.
The £1,980 donation was part of a £2,000 contribution from Redrow's Widnes Community Fund, which is linked to the company's Oak Brook Manor and Mill Green Meadows housing developments in the area.
This funding ensures that the supper clubs remain accessible at no cost, reinforcing the society's commitment to fostering community, reducing loneliness, and empowering women in Halton through regular, supportive gatherings.
