International Women’s Day Blog with Health and Advocacy Link Worker Hanin Nouma

International Women's Day takes place on 8 March and is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day is a reminder of the progress made towards gender equality and highlights work that still needs to be done and the theme this year is Inspire Inclusion, which emphasises the importance of diversity and empowerment in all aspects of society.

International Women’s Day Blog with Health and Advocacy Link Worker Hanin Nouma
To mark International Women's Day Hanin Nouma who is Health and Advocacy Link Worker at our Health and Advocacy Service in HMP Bronzefield wrote a blog on the service and exploring the theme of Inspire Inclusion.
Hanin Nouma

 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s essential to shine a light on initiatives that empower women from all walks of life. The Health and Advocacy Service in HMP Bronzefield plays a vital role in empowering women within the Criminal Justice System amidst the ongoing challenges faced. As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let us focus on the transformative journey of women and girls nurtured through informed health decisions, quality education, sports participation, and creative expression.

 

Within the complexity of the Criminal Justice System, the Health and Advocacy Service serves as a beacon of hope and support for individuals. At its core, this service embodies the ethos of empathy, understanding, and empowerment. It acknowledges the difficulties that women face when entering the Criminal Justice System and recognises their urgent need for support. The Health and Advocacy service provides access to crucial information and offers support for their mental, physical health and general wellbeing. Women can also be referred or signposted to services for additional needs such as housing, substance misuse, and financial issues. Health and Advocacy Services are available to ensure women, particularly women in prison, understand and advocate for their wellbeing, providing them with hope and a voice to be heard.

Beyond health, access to quality education and training is crucial for women’s empowerment. Education becomes a tool for liberation, offering women and girls the opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and a brighter future beyond the confines of their current circumstances. Moreover, empowerment of women extends onto the sports field, where women and girls discover the power of participation and achievement. Through sports, barriers are shattered, confidence is nurtured, and a sense of belonging is cultivated.

The Health and Advocacy Service fosters an environment where every woman feels empowered to embrace and pursue their aspirations.

International Women’s Day is also a time for reflection. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge the persistent challenges and injustices that women face globally. From gender-based violence and discrimination to unequal access to education and economic opportunities. On this day we celebrate the progress made in advocating women’s rights and gender equality. We recognise that women have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations. Together, let us continue to champion the rights and aspirations of women and girls everywhere, ensuring that everyone can thrive, succeed in an environment that will celebrate their unique strengths and enables them to feel heard and seen.

Please find below the following national women-specific services, which could be beneficial for some of the women people are assisting: