A very special piece of community artwork now has a permanent home at Tees Valley Women’s Centre, celebrating almost four decades of women, friendship, support and community in South Bank. Our new community mural was officially unveiled this September, bringing together women from the Centre, friends, partners and members of our wider community to celebrate the finished artwork and, most importantly, the women and stories behind it. Led by local artist Jessica Leigh, the mural has been a truly collaborative project from beginning to end. Women from the Centre were invited to share their memories, experiences and ideas about Tees Valley Women’s Centre, South Bank and the community that has grown around the Centre over the years. These conversations helped shape the design before the women themselves picked up the paintbrushes and helped bring the mural to life. Many started the project saying they weren’t artists, but as the mural developed, so did their confidence. Women worked together, tried something new and contributed their own creativity to a piece of artwork that will now remain part of the Centre for years to come. Every part of the mural has a story behind it. It represents the women who have walked through our doors, the friendships formed here, challenges overcome, opportunities created and the sense of belonging and community that has grown at Tees Valley Women’s Centre over almost 40 years. The finished mural was officially revealed at a special celebration at the Centre, giving everyone involved the opportunity to stand back and see what they had achieved together. It was wonderful to welcome so many people to share the occasion with us and to see the women who had contributed to the project receive the recognition they deserved. The story of the mural has also travelled far beyond the walls of the Centre. ITV Tyne Tees News joined us for the reveal, sharing the project and the women behind it with viewers across the region. We were delighted to see such positive attention focused on our women, Tees Valley Women’s Centre and our South Bank community. https://youtu.be/31K3ScYC-oI?si=Fp1Xlu6pygEpAEqc The mural has also been featured by BBC News, sharing the story of the project and how it celebrates nearly 40 years of Tees Valley Women’s Centre. Click below to read the article in full. South Bank mural celebrates nearly 40 years of women’s centreThe 40ft-long mural aims to tell the story of the Tees Valley Women’s Centre in South Bank. We are incredibly proud to see the project recognised in this way, but what makes the mural particularly special to us is what it represents. For almost four decades, women have walked through the doors of Tees Valley Women’s Centre for many different reasons. Some have come to learn new skills or gain qualifications. Others have needed advice, practical help or support. Women have come to build their confidence, improve their wellbeing, meet new people and find friendship and a sense of belonging. Every one of those women has played a part in making Tees Valley Women’s Centre what it is today. This mural captures a little of that history. It isn’t simply artwork on a wall – it is part of our story, created by women from our community for the women and community of the future. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the support of the people and organisations who helped bring the project to life. We would like to say a huge thank you to Teesworks Benevolent Foundation for generously funding the project, and to TS6 Pride in Place for their contribution towards making it possible. Thank you to PPG for supplying the paint materials that enabled our women to turn their ideas into reality, and to Bon Appetit Group Ltd for generously donating the delicious food for our opening reception and helping make the celebration even more special. A very special thank you goes to Jessica Leigh for leading the project with such creativity and enthusiasm, and for working alongside our women throughout the whole journey. And, above all, thank you to every woman who took part. Whether you shared a memory, contributed an idea, picked up a paintbrush or helped in another way, you have contributed to something that will remain part of Tees Valley Women’s Centre for many years to come. You should all be incredibly proud of what you have created. As we approach 40 years of supporting women, it feels particularly fitting to have something created by our women that reflects where we have come from, who we are today and the community that continues to surround us. The mural is a celebration of women, of South Bank, of friendship, resilience and community – and a lasting reminder of what can be achieved when people come together. A lasting legacy for Tees Valley Women’s Centre and for the generations of women who will walk through our doors in the years ahead. Supporting Women. Changing Lives. Building Brighter Futures.

At Tees Valley Women’s Centre, we love sharing the success stories of the women who come through our doors – stories of overcoming challenges, rebuilding confidence, supporting one another and taking positive steps towards a brighter future. But this success story is a little different. This one has four paws, a wagging tail and a wonderful message about community, kindness and the importance of never giving up. https://youtu.be/jt6H53poYKQ   Meet Max Earlier this year, Max suddenly lost his owner, a gentleman who was known to Tees Valley Women’s Centre. Following his owner’s death, there was uncertainty about what would happen to Max. He had lost the person and home he knew and was facing a very uncertain future. That was when Joan and her husband Brian stepped in. Joan already knew Max and had always had a soft spot for him. Rather than see him left without a home, she and husband Brian made the decision to take him in and give him a chance, with Pat – another much-loved member of the Tees Valley Women’s Centre community – right there alongside helping them from the very beginning. It was the beginning of a completely new life for Max – although the journey wasn’t always an easy one. Refusing to give up The loss and upheaval Max had experienced affected his behaviour. He was unsettled and struggled to adjust to his new circumstances, with some of his behaviour, including biting, becoming particularly challenging. But Joan and Brian persevered. Even when they were advised that Max might never be successfully rehabilitated, they weren’t prepared to simply give up on him. Instead, they looked for help and support. Cliff from Hope Animal Shelter in Loftus became an invaluable source of guidance, helping Joan and Pat to better understand Max’s behaviour and supporting them with his training. When things became difficult, Cliff continued to be there for them and never turned them away. With time, patience, consistency and a huge amount of love, things gradually began to change. Max became more settled. He learned to trust. His behaviour improved and the frightened, unsettled little dog Joan and Brian had welcomed into their home began to flourish. Just look at him now Today, Max’s life couldn’t look more different. He is currently enjoying an extended stay with Joan and Brian at their home in France – exploring the countryside, relaxing in the sunshine and enjoying being part of a family who clearly adore him. Looking at the photographs of Max enjoying his new life, it’s difficult to imagine just how uncertain his future once was. He looks happy, safe and very much at home. A story about community Although this may be a story about a dog, for us it represents something much bigger. It shows the wonderful sense of community that exists around Tees Valley Women’s Centre and the kindness, compassion and determination of the women who are part of it. Joan’s decision to step in when Max needed someone, and then to stand by him when things became difficult, reflects so much of what we see within our Centre every day – women supporting others, showing kindness and making a difference. Our Centre is much more than a building where women come to attend a course, access a service or receive support. It is a community. Friendships are formed here. Women encourage one another, look out for each other and often extend that kindness far beyond the walls of the Centre. Max’s story is one lovely example of that community spirit in action. The power of a second chance There is another reason Max’s journey feels particularly relevant to the work we do. A difficult chapter does not have to be the end of the story. Every day at Tees Valley Women’s Centre, we meet women who have experienced loss, setbacks or difficult circumstances. Some arrive having lost confidence in themselves or unsure about what their future might hold. We know that change doesn’t always happen overnight. Sometimes there are setbacks along the way. Sometimes progress takes time. And sometimes what makes the biggest difference is simply having somebody beside you who believes things can get better. Someone who gives you time. Someone who sees beyond the difficulties you’re experiencing today. And someone who doesn’t give up on you. That is what Joan and Brian gave Max. Together with the support and guidance they received from Cliff at Hope Animal Shelter, they gave him the opportunity to feel safe, learn to trust and begin again. A very happy ending We would like to thank Joan and Brian for opening their home and their hearts to Max and for allowing us to share his lovely story. We’d also like to recognise Cliff at Hope Animal Shelter for the support, patience and guidance he provided when it was needed most. And, of course, Max himself – whose journey is a wonderful reminder of what can happen when someone is given the time, support and opportunity they need. We’re incredibly proud of the wonderful women who make up our Tees Valley Women’s Centre community and the kindness they show, not only to one another, but to those around them. As for Max? We think he might just be one of the luckiest little dogs around. A second chance. A new life. And a lot of love.

At Tees Valley Women’s Centre, we love celebrating the achievements of the women who learn with us – and today we’re incredibly proud to shine the spotlight on Amy. Amy has successfully completed Makaton Level 4, an achievement that reflects her enthusiasm, determination and commitment to learning. Throughout her Makaton journey at Tees Valley Women’s Centre, Amy has continued to develop her communication skills and grow in confidence. Her positive attitude and enthusiasm have made her a wonderful part of our learning community. In our video, Amy talks about her experience of learning Makaton and gives us a glimpse of the skills she has developed along the way. Watch Amy’s video and see her Makaton skills in action. https://youtube.com/shorts/erUqvXwhlZo?feature=share Communication that can make a difference Makaton is a communication programme that uses signs, symbols and speech to support people to communicate. These skills can be particularly valuable for people working or volunteering in education, childcare, health and social care, as well as for parents, carers and anyone who wants to make communication more inclusive and accessible. Amy’s achievement is a fantastic example of what can happen when someone is given the opportunity to learn in a welcoming and supportive environment. We couldn’t be prouder of her. Start your own Makaton journey this September Feeling inspired by Amy? Our next Makaton Level 1 course is starting at Tees Valley Women’s Centre this September. 📅 Wednesdays, 9th – 30th September 2026🕤 9:30am – 11:30am📍 Tees Valley Women’s Centre The course introduces everyday Makaton signs and symbols, including greetings, good manners, food and drink, animals and other useful everyday signs. It’s the perfect place to take your first step, learn a valuable new skill and discover where your own Makaton journey could lead. The course is available to people aged 19+ who live in the Tees Valley, subject to eligibility criteria. Interested in joining us? To find out more about Makaton and the learning opportunities available at Tees Valley Women’s Centre, contact our team: Telephone: 01642 296166Email: reception@tvwc.org.ukWebsite: www.tvwc.org.uk Supporting Women. Changing Lives. Building Brighter Futures.

“Go for it.” https://youtu.be/6AA6W7s-r2I It’s simple advice, but for many women taking the first step back into education, it can feel like the hardest decision they’ll ever make. Our latest video shares the real experiences of women who chose to take that step by enrolling on the Access to Higher Education Diploma for Health Professionals at Tees Valley Women’s Centre. Their stories are honest, inspiring and proof that it’s never too late to change your future. For many of the women, the biggest challenge wasn’t the coursework – it was believing in themselves. Returning to education after years away can feel overwhelming. Balancing family life, childcare, work commitments and anxiety often leaves women questioning whether they can really do it. But as our learners explain, once they walked through the doors at Tees Valley Women’s Centre, they realised they weren’t facing that journey alone. The course is delivered in a welcoming, supportive environment where women encourage one another every step of the way. Rather than feeling like just another student in a large classroom, learners become part of a close-knit group, sharing knowledge, building friendships and growing in confidence together. For some, access to our on-site nursery made studying possible. For others, completing Maths and English qualifications first gave them the confidence to progress onto the Access course. Whatever their starting point, every learner found the encouragement and support they needed to succeed. One participant describes putting her dreams on hold for years while raising her family, believing she was “too old” to return to education. She soon discovered that age is no barrier to achieving your ambitions. Every year, women of different ages and backgrounds begin their journey with us, supporting one another and proving that it’s never too late to pursue a new career. The impact of the course extends far beyond the classroom. Our learners go on to university, qualify in healthcare professions and build careers they once thought were out of reach. As one former learner, now training to become a midwife, shared: “If it wasn’t for where I started, I wouldn’t be qualifying as a midwife.” Stories like these remind us why education has the power to transform lives. If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a nurse, midwife, paramedic, physiotherapist, occupational therapist or another healthcare professional, this could be your opportunity to take that first step. Access to Higher Education Diploma – Health Professionals Our next course starts Monday 14th September, with an Open Day on Thursday 3rd September, where you can meet the tutors, ask questions and find out whether the course is right for you. If fear, self-doubt or time have held you back in the past, we hope the women in this video inspire you to believe that you can do it too. Your future could begin with one decision. Find out more 01642 296166 reception@tvwc.org.uk www.tvwc.org.uk Tees Valley Women’s CentreSupporting Women. Changing Lives. Building Brighter Futures.

Balfour Beatty Apprentices Give Back to Tees Valley Women’s Centre Tees Valley Women’s Centre was delighted to welcome a team of apprentices from Balfour Beatty, who volunteered their time and skills to help improve our Centre as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities. Throughout the day, the apprentices worked tirelessly to refresh our facilities by painting our training rooms and clearing weeds and overgrown areas around the outside of the building. Their hard work has made a real difference, helping us maintain a welcoming, safe and inspiring environment for the hundreds of women who access our services every year. The day was coordinated and supported by Katie, Social Impact Advisor, and Becky, whose encouragement and supervision ensured the project ran smoothly. We are incredibly grateful for their enthusiasm and dedication in making the day such a success. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to CMT Group for generously donating the paint supplies, enabling this community project to take place. After a productive morning, everyone came together to enjoy a homemade lunch, kindly prepared by the wonderful ladies at the Centre. It provided a fantastic opportunity to get to know one another, reflect on the day’s achievements and celebrate the value of working together for the benefit of our local community. At Tees Valley Women’s Centre, we know that strong partnerships are essential in helping us continue to provide high-quality services and opportunities for women across the region. Support from organisations such as Balfour Beatty and CMT Group not only helps us improve our facilities but also demonstrates the positive impact businesses can have when they invest in their local communities. We would like to thank every apprentice who volunteered, along with Katie, Becky and everyone involved in making the day possible. Your generosity, hard work and community spirit are greatly appreciated, and we hope to welcome you back to Tees Valley Women’s Centre again in the future. Thank you for helping us create an even better space where women can learn, build confidence, access support and achieve their potential.

From Student to School Professional: Ashleigh’s Inspiring Journey Sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity to completely change the direction of your life. For Ashleigh McNamara, that opportunity came when she enrolled on the Supporting Teaching & Learning course at Tees Valley Women’s Centre. After becoming a mum, Ashleigh found herself at a crossroads. Like many women balancing family responsibilities while thinking about the future, she wanted to build a better life for herself and her children. Taking the first step back into education felt like a big decision—but one she now describes as the best she ever made. “Applying for the Supporting Teaching and Learning course was the best thing I ever did. It allowed me to secure a job, buy my own house and provide my two children with a secure and happy upbringing. I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity they gave me.” During her time at Tees Valley Women’s Centre, Ashleigh completed both the Level 2 and Level 3 Supporting Teaching & Learning qualifications. She also expanded her knowledge through distance learning, achieving Level 2 qualifications in Understanding Autism and Behaviour that Challenges. The impact of those qualifications has been life-changing. As part of her studies, Ashleigh completed a work placement at Prior Pursglove College. Her dedication and commitment impressed the team so much that she was offered a permanent position at the end of her placement. Securing full-time employment gave Ashleigh the financial stability to achieve another major milestone—buying her own home and providing a secure and happy environment for her two children. Her learning journey hasn’t stopped there. Inspired by her success and growing confidence, Ashleigh is now continuing her professional development and working towards becoming a qualified teacher. At Tees Valley Women’s Centre, we believe education has the power to transform lives, and Ashleigh’s story is a perfect example of what can happen when women are given the opportunity, encouragement and support to realise their potential. We are incredibly proud of everything Ashleigh has achieved and look forward to following the next chapter of her journey. Supporting Teaching & Learning Courses Return This September If Ashleigh’s story has inspired you, our Supporting Teaching & Learning Level 2 and Level 3 courses will be returning to Tees Valley Women’s Centre this September in partnership with Atomix Educational Trust. Whether you’re looking to begin a rewarding career supporting children and young people in schools and colleges or progress your existing qualifications, our friendly and supportive learning environment could be the first step towards your own success story. For more information or to enrol: 📞 01642 296166📧 reception@tvwc.org.uk🌐 www.tvwc.org.uk Your journey could start here.

Karly Dobson Celebrates Passing Her Second Year of Nursing From Access to Higher Education at Tees Valley Women’s Centre to a future in nursing When Karly Dobson first walked through the doors of Tees Valley Women’s Centre, she never imagined where that first step would lead. Looking for a better future for herself and her three children, Karly enrolled on our Access to Higher Education (Health) course alongside Maths and English. Today, she has successfully completed her second year of nursing at university and is one step closer to achieving her dream of becoming a qualified nurse. Karly’s journey is a powerful reminder that, with the right support, determination and belief in yourself, it’s never too late to change your future. “When I first walked through the doors of the Women’s Centre, I never imagined where the journey would take me. Completing my Access to Health course alongside Maths and English gave me the confidence, knowledge and belief in myself to apply for university.” A Journey of Determination Returning to education while raising a young family is never easy, and balancing university study, placements, assignments and family life has been one of Karly’s greatest challenges. As a busy mam of three, there were times when she questioned whether she could continue, but every obstacle she overcame made her stronger. Reflecting on the past year, Karly said: “There have been moments when I’ve questioned myself, felt exhausted and wondered if I could keep going, but every challenge has made me stronger.” Throughout her second year, Karly has gained invaluable experience across a range of healthcare settings. Her placements have included working in Accident & Emergency, the Urgent Treatment Centre in Redcar, supporting people with learning disabilities, and observing complex vascular surgery. Each placement has provided new experiences, broadened her clinical knowledge and strengthened both her professional skills and personal confidence. “It’s been a difficult but incredibly rewarding year, and I’m so proud to say that I’ve now passed my second year of nursing. I’m one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a qualified nurse.” Finding Confidence Perhaps the greatest transformation has been Karly’s belief in herself. There was a time when university felt completely out of reach, but through encouragement, opportunity and support from Tees Valley Women’s Centre, she discovered she was capable of achieving far more than she ever imagined. “There was a time in my life when I never thought I’d do anything with my future. I didn’t believe I was capable of going to university or pursuing a career that I could be proud of. The Women’s Centre changed that. They believed in me and gave me the opportunity, encouragement and support to build a better future for me and my family.” Today, Karly is thriving at university and is well on her way to becoming a registered nurse. Inspiring Other Women Karly hopes that by sharing her story, other women will feel encouraged to take that first step towards education, employment or a new career. “I will always be grateful to everyone at the Women’s Centre for helping me find my confidence and showing me that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. I hope my journey shows other women that, no matter what your circumstances are, with determination, support and belief in yourself, anything really is possible. Thank you, Women’s Centre, for helping me change my life. I can’t wait to continue this journey and, before long, proudly call myself a qualified nurse.” Congratulations, Karly Everyone at Tees Valley Women’s Centre is incredibly proud of everything Karly has achieved. Her journey perfectly demonstrates the life-changing impact that education, encouragement and opportunity can have. From walking through our doors unsure of what the future held, to successfully completing her second year of nursing, Karly has shown what can be achieved through hard work, resilience and self-belief. We look forward to celebrating with Karly again next year as she reaches the final milestone in her journey and qualifies as a nurse. Could your journey start here? If you’ve been thinking about returning to education, changing career or gaining the confidence to achieve your goals, we’d love to support you. At Tees Valley Women’s Centre, we help women build confidence, gain recognised qualifications and progress into higher education, employment and brighter futures. To find out more about our courses and support, contact us today: Telephone: 01642 296166Email: reception@tvwc.org.ukAddress: Upper Albion Street, South Bank, TS6 6XG Supporting Women. Changing Lives. Building Brighter Futures.

New Community Mural Project Underway at Tees Valley Women’s Centre Tees Valley Women’s Centre is delighted to share the first glimpse of an exciting new community arts project that is bringing women together through creativity, conversation and shared experiences. Thanks to funding from the Teesworks Benevolent Foundation, local artist Jessica Leigh has been working alongside women from the centre to develop the design for a brand-new community mural that will be created over the summer and become a permanent feature within the centre. Known for her vibrant, community-led artwork, Jessica has worked closely with participants to ensure the mural is inspired by the voices, memories and experiences of the women who know the centre best. Over a series of creative workshops, women who have attended the centre over the years came together to share memories, stories and ideas about what Tees Valley Women’s Centre means to them. From life-changing opportunities and lasting friendships to personal achievements and newfound confidence, every conversation has helped shape the mural’s design. The workshops encouraged women to express themselves through discussion, creative writing and a variety of artistic activities, ensuring the finished mural will truly reflect the voices, experiences and achievements of the women at the heart of our community. The accompanying video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the project so far, showcasing the inspiring workshops, the creative process and the artwork design that has emerged from the women’s shared ideas and experiences. Throughout the summer, Jessica Leigh will work alongside women from Tees Valley Women’s Centre to bring this collaborative design to life, creating a vibrant mural that celebrates the rich history of the centre while looking towards its future. Once completed, it will become a lasting legacy that reflects the strength, resilience and achievements of the thousands of women who have been part of the centre over the years. We would like to thank every woman who took part in the workshops and generously shared her memories, ideas and experiences. Your contributions have formed the heart of this project and will ensure the finished mural is a true reflection of our community. A huge thank you also goes to the Teesworks Benevolent Foundation for generously funding this wonderful project. Their support is helping us create a lasting piece of public art that will inspire women for many years to come. We’ll be sharing regular updates as the mural takes shape over the summer, so keep an eye on our website and social media channels to follow its progress and see the finished artwork revealed. https://www.tvwc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/TVWC-MURAL-VIDEO-PORTRAIT-1.mp4

Sewing Class Supports Families on the Neonatal Unit The talented ladies from the Sewing Class at Tees Valley Women’s Centre have once again demonstrated the power of community by creating a collection of specially designed gowns for parents with babies receiving care on the neonatal unit. The gowns have been developed to support skin-to-skin care, allowing parents to hold their babies close while remaining comfortable and maintaining their dignity. Skin-to-skin contact is known to provide many benefits for both babies and parents, helping to strengthen bonding, support infant development, and improve wellbeing during what can be a challenging time for families. Sarah Brooks, Northern Neonatal Care Coordinator, highlighted that clothing can often be a barrier to parents accessing skin-to-skin care. These handmade gowns will help remove that barrier, making it easier for parents to spend precious time with their babies. Everyone at Tees Valley Women’s Centre is incredibly proud of the Sewing Class for their kindness, creativity, and dedication. Their thoughtful contribution will make a meaningful difference to families across the region and is a wonderful example of how community-led projects can have a lasting impact. We would like to thank all the volunteers involved for their hard work and generosity in supporting families when they need it most.

Tees Valley Women’s Centre Receives £10,000 Donation from Wates Family Enterprise Trust Tees Valley Women’s Centre was delighted to receive a generous £10,000 donation from the Wates Family Enterprise Trust during a cheque presentation held at Wilton House last Thursday. The funding will support the centre’s core services, helping the organisation continue providing vital support to women and families across the Tees Valley. The presentation was attended alongside representatives from SES Engineering Services, who have continued to show strong commitment to supporting the work of the centre through partnership working and social value initiatives. The event also provided an opportunity to meet Ben Houchen, Mayor of Tees Valley, and discuss the services delivered by the centre, as well as the positive impact the organisation continues to have within local communities. Tees Valley Women’s Centre would like to give special thanks to Eilish Heatley, SES Social Values Advisor, for her ongoing encouragement, commitment and continued support to the centre. The strong relationship built with SES Engineering has played an important role in helping raise awareness of the charity’s work and ensuring continued support for women across the region. Partnerships such as this demonstrate the importance of collaboration between charities, businesses and community organisations in creating meaningful social impact across the Tees Valley. Everyone at Tees Valley Women’s Centre would like to thank the Wates Family Enterprise Trust and SES Engineering Services for their generosity, partnership and continued belief in the work of the centre.