CELEBRATING SUCCESS: Michelle Renton

At Tees Valley Women’s Centre, we are proud of each and every woman who walks through our doors. Every journey is unique, every step forward matters, and every achievement — big or small — is something to celebrate.

We see first-hand the strength, resilience and determination of the women we support, and Michelle’s story is a truly inspiring example of what can be achieved with the right support, encouragement and belief.

Michelle began her journey with us around 8 years ago, while juggling a busy life, working in care, and raising 6 children.

She joined the centre to continue her learning and quickly found so much more than just education — she found support, friendship, and a space where she could be herself.

Michelle says the centre helped her mentally, giving her people to talk to and a community that truly cared.

Over the years, she achieved so much:

Level 3 Health & Social Care

First Aid, Manual Handling & Food Hygiene

Maths & English Functional Skills

Access to Healthcare Diploma in Adult Nursing – passed with Distinction

Michelle had planned to go to university, but life had other plans — and an incredible opportunity came her way.

She applied for a role at a local hospice, somewhere very close to her heart after losing her mam there 3 years ago. Today, she has been in that role for nearly 13 months and has secured a full-time permanent position.

In her own words:

“If it wasn’t for Tees Valley Women’s Centre, I wouldn’t be where I am today… I love my job and the access course has given me so much confidence in myself to push forward. I may not have gone to university, but I have an access diploma in health and a job I am so proud of and love. I have me back and I’m so happy.”

We are incredibly proud of you, Michelle — and of every woman who takes that first step and keeps going. Your journeys inspire us every single day