My inspiration for getting involved in Women At The Well, came from my time spent in Thailand last year. There I set up and implemented an English syllabus for trafficked returnees and vulnerable women in the sex trade who had found themselves in horrific situations against their will.

Since returning home I have worked as a volunteer at WATW. It is a support organisation based in King's Cross, London. It helps vulnerable and defenceless women. Many of these women are involved in prostitution, some of whom have severe drug and alcohol addictions. Others are mentally and emotionally disturbed and some have been, or still are, homeless.

My aim is to set up a project through which I can help build on the creativity and self-esteem of these women. Many of them may never have had the opportunity to learn an instrument or be involved in music in any way. I plan to set up and facilitate an informal guitar workshop where my ladies can learn to play and sing, discover their hidden talents, write their own music and build their self-confidence in a warm and inclusive environment; all of this regardless of their background or the problems they currently face. This can be an ideal opportunity to leave their problems at the door, come inside, enjoy music and have a laugh!

In order to do this I need to raise £1000 to buy six guitars on which they can learn. Any extra money raised will go towards the upkeep of the guitars, string replacements, plectrums, music, tuners and general maintenance.

The Challenge

On 16^th January 2010 I will endeavour to swim 200 continuous lengths of Richmond Swimming Baths. (This is equal to just over 4.5 miles and will take me about 3 hours.) There is no target time, just the distance. I have a personal record of 160 lengths to beat.

Please sponsor me. It can be as little or as much as you can afford. As the saying goes: “Look after the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves”.

I am sincere in my quest. Let us try and help these women together.

 

Poppy Martin

 

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