BRIDGWATER will have its very own Women's Centre opening soon.

The centre, run by The Nelson Trust, will act as a hub to support some of the most vulnerable women in our society.

To ensure that the centre, which will be based in the heart of Bridgwater, continues to be safe, friendly and welcoming for those that need it the charity have entered The Big Give Christmas Challenge.

Aimee Davies, head of fundraising said: “We are raising vital funds towards our new Somerset Women's Centre and invite the residents of Bridgwater to support us by making a pledge before August 31.

"The Somerset Women's Centre will be the only community-based one-stop-shop for women who are experiencing multiple disadvantage in Somerset, we have £3,150 pledged already, and need another £600 to meet our pledge target."

Specially trained staff support women across nine pathways, including offering housing advice, education programmes and support with substance misuse.

Staff provide a trauma-informed approach to supporting women, with a specially trained keyworker who works closely with women to address their needs - helping to improve outcomes for women in the area and reduce reoffending.

Niki Gould, head of women’s community services said: “We are establishing a new Women’s Centre in Bridgwater.

"We are currently working with 150 women across Somerset, and this new centre will mean we can benefit around 400 women in Somerset by the end of 2019.

"Around 47 per cent of the women we work with are mothers and the centre will provide a safe Crèche for their children, while they access the support they need to address the multiple and complex needs they experience every day.

"Our women are surviving abuse, exploitation and life-long trauma."

The Nelson Trust is aiming to raise £15,000 overall and need to secure £3,750 in Pledge Promises from our supporters before the August 31 deadline, as this will unlock further match funds.

To find out more about The Big Give visit secure.thebiggive.org.uk/propject/view/13529.