Birmingham’s Centre for Women
Anawim is a well-established women’s centre based in Balsall Heath, Birmingham, providing specialist support to women facing a wide range of personal, social and practical challenges. For more than three decades, the organisation has played an important role in supporting some of the city’s most vulnerable women, offering a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental space where help can be accessed with dignity and respect.
History and ethos
Anawim was founded over 30 years ago in response to the growing need for women-specific services in Birmingham. From its earliest days, the organisation focused on empowering women who were experiencing crisis, disadvantage or exclusion. Over time, it has evolved into a comprehensive women’s centre offering a broad range of integrated services.
The charity works to a trauma-informed and holistic model, recognising that many women face multiple, interconnected difficulties. Rather than focusing on a single issue, Anawim supports women as whole individuals, addressing immediate needs while helping them work towards longer-term stability and independence.
Support services
Anawim provides a wide range of practical, emotional and advocacy-based services, tailored to individual circumstances.
Drop-in support
The centre operates a daily drop-in service, allowing women to access help without an appointment or formal referral. This provides a safe place to talk, receive guidance and obtain essential practical support such as food parcels, toiletries and clothing.
Domestic abuse support
Specialist staff offer support and guidance to women experiencing domestic abuse. This includes safety planning, emotional support and help accessing appropriate services and legal or housing advice when required.
Emotional wellbeing and mental health
Anawim offers one-to-one emotional support and counselling, helping women cope with trauma, loss, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. The service aims to build resilience, confidence and emotional stability.
Advocacy and practical assistance
Staff support women with a wide range of practical issues including housing, benefits, debt, employment, education and family matters. Anawim can also advocate on behalf of women when dealing with statutory agencies and other organisations.
Courses and activities
The centre runs a variety of courses, workshops and group activities designed to improve wellbeing, build skills and encourage social connection. These activities help women regain confidence and develop positive routines.
Women and the justice system
Anawim delivers specialist support for women involved with the criminal justice system, helping them engage with rehabilitation, reduce re-offending and build more stable futures.
Pre-Loved Hub
The organisation operates a Pre-Loved Hub, providing affordable clothing and essential household items. This service supports women facing financial hardship while promoting dignity and self-reliance.
How Anawim supports women
Anawim’s approach is based on trust, understanding and respect. Women are supported at their own pace, without pressure or judgement. The organisation recognises that progress can take time and that small steps can lead to meaningful change.
By combining practical help with emotional support and advocacy, Anawim helps women feel safer, more confident and better equipped to manage their lives and move forward positively.
Accessing support
Women can access Anawim’s services by:
- Attending the drop-in centre during opening hours
- Calling the helpline for advice and support
- Being referred by another organisation
- Contacting the centre directly to discuss available services
Opening hours and services may vary, and women are encouraged to contact the centre for up-to-date information.
Address and contact details
Anawim – Birmingham’s Centre for Women
228 Mary Street
Balsall Heath
Birmingham
B12 9RJ
Telephone: 0121 440 5296
Freephone helpline: 0330 056 0065
Website: www.anawim.co.uk
Who Anawim supports
Anawim primarily supports women aged 18 and over living in Birmingham. This includes women experiencing domestic abuse, mental health difficulties, poverty, social isolation, involvement with the justice system or other complex challenges. Services are inclusive and tailored to individual needs.
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