Luminary is an innovative response to a need we saw for women who have had a social and economic disadvantage. We are a social enterprise designed to offer opportunities for women to build a future for themselves. We provide a safe and professional environment where women can grow holistically – encouraging ambition, restoration and second chances.

Multiple disadvantage is recognising that many people do not experience just one social disadvantage but a combination of social disadvantages, which interlink and drive a cycle of deprivation. 

Recognising this is important as there is evidence that those that experience these interlinked disadvantages are more likely to fall through service gaps, as they may not rely solely on one service but require the input of many services.

Some examples of social disadvantages that people may experience are substance misuse, low income, poor health, experience of violence and homelessness. 

See Lankelly Chase Foundation "Severe and Multiple Disadvantage" 

Our aim is always to encourage and empower and we recognise that our words can have destructive effects when not carefully thought through. The women we support are leaving various difficult backgrounds. They are strong, resilient and have been through a lot. It is crucial that we use terminology that empowers and releases women from stigma. 

We refer to Luminary as supporting ‘disadvantaged women’ as it relieves the need to go specifically into their background, and enables them to put that in the past. We try to avoid using the term ‘vulnerable’ as in our experience they are not, they are strong and capable!