A charity that works to support some of the most disadvantaged members of the community has set up a new base in Middlesbrough.
A Way Out has been providing outreach and working in Middlesbrough for several years, and the acquisition of a new building on Wilson Street has created a further safe space in which to offer support.
And the town’s elected Mayor Chris Cooke dropped by to welcome them to the town and find out more about their work.
The Stockton-based charity supports women, young people and families across Teesside to live free from harm, abuse and exploitation.
A Way Out recently became the only organisation in the north east to be awarded the prestigious Silver Quality Mark for trauma-informed work
The award recognises organisations that can evidence they meet a robust, accessible and supportive set of standards for working with trauma.
It has been developed through an extensive analysis of existing global standards, principles and values associated with trauma-informed working practices.
This means that trauma-informed working is implemented across the culture, practice and environment of A Way Out, ensuring individual needs and well-being are prioritised.
A Way Out Chief Executive Officer Kay Nicolson said: “We are immensely proud to receive the Silver Quality Mark for Trauma Informed Work which reaffirms our commitment to provide a safe and supportive environment for the vulnerable women, young people, and families we serve across Teesside.
“It reflects our dedication to prioritising individual needs and well-being, ensuring that trauma-informed practices are deeply embedded within our organisation.
“We are proud to be the first charity in the region to have been awarded the Silver Quality Mark for Trauma Informed Work for our holistic services.
“This distinction underscores our unwavering dedication to excellence and innovation in trauma-informed care, setting a benchmark for organisations across Teesside and beyond.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke visited the charity’s new base on Middlesbrough’s Wilson Street and chatted to staff and volunteers.
He said: “It’s impossible to overstate the importance of charities like A Way Out and we are fully committed to giving them all the support we can.
“They are there for some of the most disadvantaged people in our communities and offer compassionate, expert help and support when it’s needed most.
“There is no place for harm, abuse and exploitation in a modern, caring society and I’m delighted to welcome them to Middlesbrough to carry on their work.”