I've only just watched the video of the womens centre/ launderette/cafe/ bar.
Having frequented 3 different Womens Aid centres, and a womens safety unit, i have never seen one quite like this before.
The front door on Rachy's new place doesn't seem to have a particularly secure entrance, ie, one where you can only get in after being viewed by staff on a security camera and then being buzzed in.
But this place doesn't appear to have that, but then maybe that's because it's not actually a place where abused women can seek the real help that they desperately need, in my opinion.
This is a laundetette/cafe/bar.
There were never bars, community fridges or washing machines in the centres that I went to, probably because they weren't necessary.
If you have escaped a violent situation in a hurry, these above services are not a necessity immediately.
Or if a woman drops in for a chat, a cup of tea or coffee and help and support is what is needed.
Qualified and trained staff are necessary. Immediately.
Safety from the abuser is necessary immediately.
I was once given a clean set of clothes and a bag of toiletries, which I greatly appreciated.
I didn't ever bring a load of washing, or come in for a cappuccino and some lush fresh cakes.
And what and who will be in the therapy room?
Because the way this place has been set up, I'm thinking along the lines of beauty treatments?
Waxing? Get your muff tidied up and hairy legs sorted. A little nail bar in the corner.
Because when your husband or partner has just tried to smash your brains in, beaten tit into you and almost murdered you, this could be just what you need.
Maybe?
A pamper session and a coffee and a cake, clean washing and a bag of food to take home for the children's tea.
If I was home in Wales I would definitely be driving down to Devon and checking this place out.
I will definitely do it.
I just hope it hasn't been closed down by then.
Actually I do hope it has been closed down by then.
And a cappuccino a lush fresh cake would be perfect when I visit.
Almost forgot Rach, I'm pretty sure ALL the staff will need to have been vaccinated against Covid, you too Rachelelele!
And don't forget the food safety inspection and certification for your new bar/lush fresh cake shop & community fridge.
You probably need permission to be running a laundetette too.
Don't mention it Rach, I've spent a lot of time in real womens safety refuges and centres, so I have a bit of experience with how they work.