Local church
The local church is central to our work, increasing the breadth of support we are able to offer to women.
Our vision over the next 10 years is to establish multiple counselling and safe housing hubs linked to local churches across the country and to train and equip those churches to be welcoming spaces for survivors who choose to connect in to their community and explore faith for themselves.
Some of the core support women receive is run by Orchards; some by the church partner, with relationships at the heart of the work we do. Women build consistent relationships of trust with an Orchards Support Worker, an Orchards Counsellor and an Alongside Volunteer (Befriender), which underpins their support journey with us. You can see what this looks like here.
We support women of all faiths and none. While there are opportunities for women to be invited to church and to community events provided by the church, it is the choice of the woman how she engages.
We work with the local church on safeguarding and pastorally supporting women who choose to get involved with the life of the church.
As a church there are many ways you can partner with us:
We would love to come to your church or small group to talk about the issues surrounding sexual exploitation. Get in touch to book a speaker.
Join our bank of volunteers
