Helping victims of domestic abuse with new kitchens thanks to WPS

The scheme in Solihull is owned by us and managed by Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid.

As part of a social value project, WPS donated and installed a communal kitchen in the scheme. A further 11 new kitchens were installed in individual flats as part of our kitchen programme to upgrade kitchens at the end of their life.

The improvements have helped create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for the women living there.

Our Supported Housing and Partnerships Team Leader Sarah Beckett said she’s thrilled with the final result.

She said: “I'd like to say a huge thank you to WPS for donating and installing the new kitchen at our domestic abuse refuge.

"When women move into the scheme, they have often left behind their home and many of the things that made them feel comfortable. Having modern, welcoming facilities can make a real difference and help create a place that feels safe and homely.

"We want to make sure our customers have access to high-quality accommodation while they rebuild their lives.

Tabasem Fardose Solihull Refuge Manager at Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid said: “The new kitchens have made a real difference to the women staying at our refuge.

“Having a modern, welcoming space where they can prepare meals helps create a sense of stability and normality at a time when they need it most. It's often the everyday things that have the greatest impact on someone's recovery, and we're incredibly grateful to WPS and Citizen for investing in our refuge and supporting the women and children who call it home.”

Peter Perkins Project Manager at WPS added: “Working on behalf of Citizen, we are extremely grateful for the positive feedback we have received regarding the kitchen installations. The feedback from both customers and staff makes all the hard work worthwhile, knowing that we are making such a positive difference to people's lives.

“Customers now have a beautiful new communal kitchen that provides a welcoming, modern, and functional space for residents to enjoy. It is rewarding to see the impact these improvements have on the community, and we are proud to have contributed to creating a facility that will benefit residents for many years to come.

“We would like to thank everyone involved for their support and kind comments. Positive feedback such as this motivates our team to continue delivering high-quality improvements for our customers and communities.”