Case Study
Open House Community Group – Girls Group
Girls living in deprived areas commonly lack support from schools and other youth services. They tend to experience anxiety, low moods and isolation. These circumstances open the door for them to become more susceptible to manipulation both in person and online. This is where community groups like Open House have come in. Since 2020 they have provided youth clubs, workshops, therapy and mentoring to create a safer environment for young people, helping them use their time in ways that impact them positively.
They have helped empower many girls aged 10–16 through weekly sessions that offer comprehensive support. Participants have access to a psychotherapist and a behaviour mentor to strengthen their mental health and wellbeing, all while socialising in a safe and welcoming environment. With guidance from a range of positive adult role models, the girls develop important life skills such as cooking and crafts, take part in social action projects and build positive, supportive relationships.
The three estates in Birmingham that the project focused on were categorised in the top 10% of deprived areas in the UK. Introducing girls trips, leisure activities and renovation projects, particularly throughout school holidays, has proven to be one of the best ways to keep young women productive and making positive choices. Funding is required for charities like these to survive, as they benefit not only the participants but the wider community, bridging the divide between the older and younger generations.
For girls approaching the end of school, it’s common to feel unsure about what comes next. Many don’t receive enough guidance about the opportunities available to them, which can sometimes lead to unhelpful choices. These sessions not only build confidence but also show the girls that anything is possible when they believe in themselves. With positive role models by their side, they gain a clearer understanding of life and the range of opportunities open to them.
With £9,820 of support from CHIP’s Community Chest Fund, they were able to deliver sessions and provide meaningful support to young people. Sometimes, it only takes one person to make a lasting difference in a young woman’s life, offering guidance that helps her make the best choices, rather than having to recover from difficult ones later on.
Visit www.chipcharity.org.uk/community-chest-fund/ to learn how your organisation can apply for funding and continue making a positive impact in people’s lives.
