by Tracey Robinson

In the run-up to our GrappleThon in support of One25 next week, Artemis BJJ student Tracey headed down to their offices (a short walk from MYGYM) to talk to them about their wonderful charity work. 

A morning at the One25 drop-in centre gave me a wonderful insight into the work they do.  There are 3 ways they help women who are trapped in street sex work:

• Van outreach. The van goes out 5 nights a week around central Bristol and offers women food, first aid, warm clothing and a chance to sit in the van to talk if they want.

• Drop-in centre. This is open in the afternoons and caters for their basic needs… hot meal, shower, laundry & free clothes and a weekly health clinic.  There are also creative activities available: cooking, sewing, writing etc.   Plus, an opportunity to have someone listen to them, be a friend and help build up their self-esteem.

• Women wanting to move away from working on the streets are linked up with the casework team, who support each woman to take steps to improve their life.  This could be finding them somewhere safe to live, rehabilitation, re-connecting with family etc.

80% of the women that use One25 are homeless or are in unsafe accommodation.  They are usually malnourished, have neglected their health and many are addicted to drugs and/or alcohol.  One25 takes care of all their needs, both immediate and long-term.   The work they do is outstanding and worthwhile, as demonstrated in Andrea’s story:

http://one25.org.uk/stories/andreas-story/#storyTitle