How are we adapting to COVID-19?
Although Luminary has ceased operations at our cafes & bakeries for the time being, we continue to work with and support our women. Luminary is not just a bakery, it is a community and a sign of hope for many of the women that we work with.
WHY IS IT CRUCIAL THAT WE CONTINUE TO SUPPORT OUR TRAINEES AND GRADUATES DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS?
Having survived some form of gender-based violence in the past, many of the women we support to continue to live with a high risk of domestic abuse.
The national domestic abuse helpline, run by the charity Refuge, reported a 65% increase in calls to the helpline on Saturday (28th March 2020) compared with the same day the previous week, and traffic to its website and use of web chat facilities have increased.
The reality for many women, and certainly those we support, is that the threat of violence and escalation of trauma is as great a threat to life as COVID-19.
HOW HAVE WE ADAPTED?
1. SUPPORT FOR LUMINARY TRAINEES
Our Lead Employability Tutor continues to provide all trainees with in-depth, holistic support via weekly/daily phone calls. This enables us to support women virtually with a range of issues from escalating domestic abuse, to financial crisis (including food bank referrals and providing emergency food parcels for those most vulnerable).
2. Employability Courses Go Digital
Our incredible Bakery Tutor has started weekly bake at home video tutorials. These recipes use minimal ingredients or things that can easily be found in your local corner shop - some don't even require an oven! Kits are posted to our women with recipes and some ingredients to ensure all can participate. We are streaming some of these videos on our Instagram so that you can enjoy them too! We have loved seeing what you are baking so do share photos with us.
3. SUPPORT FOR LUMINARY GRADUATES
The support offered for our graduates mirrors that of our trainees. They continue to receive phone support assisting with any issues that have arisen due to COVID-19, with a higher level of support allocated to women identified as high risk. Our team have created wellbeing resources & activities to engage our women in during this stressful and potentially trauma triggering time.
To help us continue to support our women, you can donate the cost of a self-care package or cover the cost of a vital food delivery. £10 would cover the costs of a COVID-19 care package, £35 is a food shop for a vulnerable family we're supporting.
SOME OF THE AMAZING SUPPORT RESOURCES OUR CHARITY TEAM HAS CREATED:
*These resources will be available to download for free from our website and socials in the coming weeks.
You can read more about our INCREDIBLE team at these links:
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CEO Alice gives an insight into making a dream a reality.
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Employability Tutor Ruth speaks about reclaiming hope and the journey our women take.
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Cafe Manager Essy chats about cafe life and how Luminary is a home away from home.
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Commercial Director Rachael discusses growing opportunities at Luminary.
RESOURCES AND SUPPORT
Helplines
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The National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247
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National Stalking Helpline 0808 802 0300
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The Havens provide support for those who have been sexually assaulted 020 3299 6900
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For Mental Health support, contact Samaritans for free on 116 123 or text Shout to 85258
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If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger always call
999 and ask for the police.
More Information
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Surviving Economic Abuse offers advice and guidance for those at risk of financial abuse during this time.
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Hestia provides a free-to-download mobile app, Bright Sky, which provides support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.