International Women’s Day 2025

This year’s International Women’s Day was a truly special one for us at Women’s Aid North East Lincs.

With the incredible support of our local community, we hosted a powerful and uplifting event dedicated to empowering the women we support, helping them feel valued, cared for and, most importantly, reminding them that they are enough just as they are.

For many of the women who came along, life has been tough. Domestic abuse strips away confidence, self-worth and all too often, the belief that they deserve kindness and care.

That’s why we wanted this day to be more than just a celebration of International Women’s Day, it was a chance for these women to pause, breathe and be reminded of their own worth.

With the generosity of local businesses, we transformed the day into a full pamper experience, being treated to hair styling, makeup, beauty treatments, massage and relaxation sessions.

There was also yoga, mindfulness and other wellbeing activities designed to help them reconnect with themselves and every single element of the day was about showing them that they matter, that their needs, wants and wellbeing deserve attention, just like anyone else’s.

One of the most touching moments of the day was seeing women look in the mirror after having their hair done or receiving a makeover and genuinely smiling at themselves, some for the first time in a long time.

That moment of recognition, of seeing themselves with fresh eyes, was incredibly powerful.

Following on from last year’s successful International Women’s Day event, this year, we centred the event around the message

I Am Enough

a phrase so simple yet so deeply meaningful.

Domestic abuse can leave women feeling like they are never good enough, never worthy and constantly needing to prove their value.

We wanted to change that narrative.

Throughout the day, we spoke about self-worth, confidence and the importance of believing that, without changing a single thing, every woman in that room was already enough.

Workshops, discussions and even the smallest gestures of care were all underpinned by this message and the women left not just feeling pampered but with a renewed sense of self-belief, something that no amount of external validation can truly replace.None of this would have been possible without the incredible generosity of local businesses. The individuals and professionals who came together to make this event happen.

Hairdressers, beauticians, massage therapists, yoga instructors and so many others took time away from their own businesses to give back.

Some closed their salons or took a day off from paid work, just to be part of this special event, bringing their skills and energy to create a day of joy and relaxation for the women who needed it most.

Beyond those who were physically there on the day, we were also overwhelmed by the kindness of so many businesses across North East Lincs who contributed to the beautiful gift bags we were able to give to every single woman who attended.

From beauty products to self-care treats, every bag was a symbol of the wider community wrapping its arms around these women, showing them that they are valued and supported.

To every business, every professional, every volunteer and every person who contributed in any way, you made a difference.

You reminded these women that they are seen, they are worthy and they are enough.

Thank you for standing with us.We believe that events like this are about more than just one day.

The confidence, warmth and encouragement that women took away will stay with them far beyond International Women’s Day.

It’s a reminder that there is support, that people care and that they do not have to walk their journey alone.

To every woman who attended, and those reading this article, please remember, you are enough.

Today, tomorrow and always.