Pictured: Helen Ward
Divorce Recovery supporters in Birmingham are offering help to
people with the launch of a new workshop, amid an increase in
marriage break-ups.
The launch by Divorce Recovery Workshop (DRW), a national
charity, is offering the six-week workshop to help people deal with
issues arising from divorce or separation.
The first rise in divorce rates for seven years was revealed
recently, and more people are expected to require the help of the
Birmingham Divorce Recovery Workshop. It is run by volunteers who
have benefited from its support to recover from divorce
themselves.
Families are struggling to cope with the tensions exacerbated by
money pressures and unemployment. There were 119,589 divorces
in England and Wales in 2010, up from 113,949.
The Divorce Recovery Workshop at Barnt Green, Bromsgrove, is the
only one in the South Birmingham/North Worcestershire area.
Co-ordinator for the South Birmingham group is mother of four
Helen Ward, of Redditch, who said: "The rising divorce rate is a
challenge for women, men and children. Many are unaware of Divorce
Recovery Workshops, but we can support these people.
"Seven years ago, the workshops at Barnt Green turned my life
around after divorce left me at rock bottom. I could see no future,
and had no confidence, with low self-esteem, but it gave me hope
and support, and I felt the call to do the same for others.
"The workshop is targeting its help and support around
Birmingham, especially the south side. It would be great to hear
from people who need to have support at our workshop."
One man who attended after a damaging divorce said: "I have made
some good friends at the workshops: they have shared their true
feelings about their breakdown. This is their strength: It's a safe
environment and whilst everyone has a different story, many of the
emotions expressed are similar."
Around 30,000 people are affected by divorce annually in the
West Midlands . The DRW courses are recognised by professionals,
with referrals from GP's and lawyers. The workshop takes a positive
approach, exploring new responsibilities/finances, coping as a
single parent, new relationships and moving on.
Workshop participants meet people who can help and support them
through the challenges.
Anyone involved in divorce or separation, who may be of any
faith or none, is invited. The next six-week course starts on
Tuesday February 21st, 7:30pm - 9:30pm, at Barnt Green Baptist
Church , Bittel Road , Bromsgrove , B45 8LT. You can book to join
the six-week-workshop by phoning David on 01527 577268 or Heidi
Twilley on0121-445-4396, e-mail barntgreen@drw.org.uk