Leeds project for vulnerable now blossoming after cash boost

The Joanna Project, based in Sydneham Street, Holbeck, was given a £1,000 grant from Comic Relief in 2015.

It was originally set up a safe haven for vulnerable and at-risk women with issues in Leeds, as a place to escape from pressures, learn new skills and make friends.

The YEP is urging women and men in Leeds to help combat social stigma surrounding mental health issues as part of our #SpeakYourMind campaign, which launched in October 2016.

Organisers used the to grant transform a community garden with new equipment plants and plants for visiting women.

Jackie Hird, manager of the project is now calling on people to dig deep ahead of Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day on March 24, to help make a difference to the city.

She said: “The money we received from Comic Relief made such a great difference to what we could offer the women who join us, so we know just how important people’s donations are.

“The women we support are often trapped by addiction, and like a weed that can quickly take over everything and become all-consuming.”