Kirton Lodge – a supported housing project for young mums – is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and I had a lovely time when I joined all the staff and residents at their recent party.
While I was there I met Jenny Pepper, who told me about the huge difference Kirton Lodge had made to her life. It wasn’t just having a roof over her head: she learnt about the emotional and physical aspects of domestic abuse, got basic skills like how to manage the family budget, and support to identify her long-term goals and the practical steps to get there.
Jenny said she was really glad the staff at Kirton Lodge had pushed her to focus on building a good life for herself and her daughter. She has just gained a Level 2 in Health and Social Care at Leicester College, she’s managed to find a flat in Kirby Frith, and is looking for a job too.
One of the issues Jenny raised with me is that children need relationship as well as sex education in school. I completely agree, which is why I’ve been supporting Labour’s campaign in Parliament for Sex and Relationship Education in the National Curriculum.
