Peterborough charities combine to gift pamper packs for inspirational local women

International Women’s Day is an annual event that acts as a focal point for the women’s rights movement across the world and takes place on March 8.

Ahead of this date, Peterborough-based organisations Near Neighbours Peterborough, Community First (Peterborough), Let’s Make A Difference, Extended hands, Chinese in Peterborough, Gladstone Connect and the Olive Branch Community Garden are coming together to provide some special treats for inspirational women in the city.

The team will be providing 100 special pamper packs, which will include bath bombs, chocolates, a craft pack, a potted lavender plant as well as handwritten letters from other local women, celebrating the achievements of the recipients.

Femi Olasoko, Peterborough Coordinator for Near Neighbours said: “As organisations we are aware that local women have been working harder than ever since lockdown. Going above and beyond to support people in their community, in addition to teaching kids at home with the demands of family life or dealing with personal loss.

“We want them to know that they are appreciated and not alone.

“As an organisation, we have always brought women together to celebrate on March 8 in our ten hubs, though we cannot do that this year, we still want women to feel connected and celebrated for the vital contributions they make in the community.”

Helen Walkinshaw from Community First (Peterborough) added: “We hope this collaborative work will be able to reach out to women of diverse ethnic backgrounds, faith or no faith in Peterborough.

“You can nominate another woman or nominate yourself. We want to hear the story behind your nomination; to understand what your experience of lockdown has been, a kind gesture from a stranger, help to an elderly neighbour, a young woman who inspires you or a mum who has survived months with the kids at home. Let’s straighten each other’s crowns after a long, hard year.”

Hand crafted packs will be delivered by volunteers from Let’s Make a Difference on March 7 and 8.

To nominate a local woman, contact Femi at [email protected] or Helen at [email protected], providing their name, address and the reason for your nomination.