Over £33,476 distributed to projects supporting women across North Yorkshire

The Two Ridings Women in Business network recently came together to award over £33,476 in grants to a variety of projects that support women and girls across North Yorkshire.

This unique network brought together professional women from across the region to share experiences, learn about philanthropy, and pool resources to create meaningful change. Through their collective generosity, members funded initiatives that addressed the specific needs of women and girls, helping to build confidence, improve wellbeing, and foster community.

The final funding round was the largest since the fund’s inception, benefiting organisations in Scarborough, York, Harrogate, and Richmond.  Here are the seven organisations that were awarded funding in the final round:

The Autistic Girls Network used the £5,000 grant to establish the first and only peer support group for autistic girls in Scarborough. This group, led by two neurodivergent mothers of autistic girls, will provide a safe, supportive space for these girls to connect with others who understand their unique experiences. Over 26 fortnightly sessions, the group will focus on autism’s presentation in women and girls, creating a space that is tailored to their specific needs.

With their £3,933 grant, Mindful Photography UK are delivering 10 therapeutic photography workshops for women in York who have experienced domestic violence. These workshops will help women reconnect with their sense of self, build confidence, and reduce isolation by fostering a sense of community through creative expression. As the project develops, there are plans to invite families to join in, further expanding the reach and impact of the project.

Whitby Hidden Impairments Support & Help (WHISH) are using their £4,572 to provide weekly counselling sessions for girls and their families over 28 weeks. This support is especially vital for girls who have hidden impairments or disabilities that often make it harder for them to fit into societal norms. By addressing mental health challenges, boosting self-esteem, and improving social skills, this project will empower these girls to navigate the world with greater confidence and resilience.

The Island is using their £4,996 grant to run monthly mentoring sessions for girls in York who are accessing the Island’s mentoring service. The sessions will be designed to be low-pressure and low stimulation, catering to those with anxiety or additional needs. The aim is to create a safe space where girls can build meaningful relationships with their mentors, as well as with other participants, through small group activities and a supportive environment.

Taking Baby Steps CIC received £4,975 to subsidise support sessions for women in the Harrogate area dealing with mental health difficulties following birth trauma or the loss of a baby. With at least one in three women experiencing some form of birth trauma, this service provides much-needed therapeutic support for women during one of the most challenging times in their lives. This project is run by women, for women, and focuses on healing and emotional recovery.

York In Recovery used their £5,000 to support their Empowering Women’s Wellness Project, which provides wellbeing groups for women in York recovering from substance addiction and those who have experienced domestic violence. These women-only spaces offer friendship, support, and a range of activities designed to help women rebuild their lives. The grant will be used to employ a coordinator to ensure the project’s continued success and expansion.

Neurodiverse Community Catterick are using its £5,000 grant to run outdoor wellbeing sessions for neurodiverse women and girls in Catterick. The sessions aim to foster confidence, inclusivity, and a sense of community for women who often face marginalisation due to their neurodivergence. Through these activities, participants will have the opportunity to connect, build self-esteem, and be part of a supportive, welcoming community.

While the Women in Business Network fund has now closed, its impact will continue to ripple through the lives of women and girls across North Yorkshire. If you’re inspired by these stories and want to support similar initiatives, Two Ridings Community Foundation has other open funds available for individuals and organisations passionate about making a difference.

View our current open funds here: Giving to enrich lives & transform communities in North & East Yorkshire, York & Hull