On the 10th June, we launched in the Peak District. Excuse me… what?! That sounds absolutely insane to say, given the club isn’t even at a year yet… but we’ve known from the beginning that what we do is needed all over the country. In Wigan and Leigh, The Girls Club Life has become essential for the women who attend our sessions and events, and it’s a big part of our mission to expand. Week in and week out, we receive messages that ask if we’re coming to you. We’re proud to say that the Peak District is the first.
Sally, our incredible lead facilitator (and overall wonder woman) is based in Matlock and saw the need in the area and wanted to launch. Once her training was done, she was ready to go and it’s been wonderful to watch it explode. Their first walk and talk was on the 17th June, at the gorgeous Lumsdale Waterfalls. On the walk the women could have a chat, get things off their chest, and find support with each other.
Sally spoke about her reasons behind becoming a facilitator; “It was my friend who started it, the amazing Jess and it’s helped so many women already. For me personally, since being diagnosed with diabetes three years ago, I have struggled at times as I can’t do everything that I used to. Also, I’ve moved to a new area. I’d love to meet new women and make new friends.”
The first walk was a huge success, as we knew it would be… I mean, gorgeous views, women coming together… What’s not to love? Sally hosted the first talk and chat (our first peer support session) at the Bod in Matlock on Wednesday 24th June, 5-7pm. Come join our weekly mental well-being peer support sessions, a safe place to talk and find connection.
Jess, our founder, has this to say: “The Girls Club started in July of last year and we focus on supporting women’s mental health, tackling isolation, and women’s empowerment.”
We also want to express our huge thanks to Chloe at Grazing Gatherings, who is doing a sky dive (you’re so much braver than us!) to raise funds for the club. Chloe, thank you for helping us, help women. We can’t wait to see your sky dive. To donate head to our Peak District page and click the link to sponsor.
The next walk & talk is on Wednesday 1st July, 6-8pm at Riber Castle. Meet at the Hall Leys Park band stand.
See you there, ladies of the Peak District!
If you see the work we do and want to get involved (and bring The Girls Club to where you live) then pop me an email at allie@thegirlsclub.life. I guess we can now officially say that Operation Girls Club World Takeover is a-go!
With gratitude,
Allie x