Here come the girls

In Harehills, Leeds, a group of young women are on their way to a creative writing group. They pass a colourful mural depicting a strong and independent “warrior girl”. Celebrating young women, while raising their aspirations and building their self-confidence and resilience, is at the heart of Getaway Girls’ work.

Kelly, 23, is attending She Writes, aimed at young women aged 18 to 25. She Writes is a spin-off from Side by Side, a support group for young women with experience of mental health issues. Like many of her fellow writers, Kelly’s story is traumatic. “I am a rape victim,” she says. “I was living with my rapist and had to leave.” Victim Support connected Kelly, who was sleeping on her sister’s sofa, with Shanaz Kashem, crisis intervention worker at Getaway Girls. “Shanaz went in and within an hour I got help with benefits. I’m now in my own property,” says Kelly.