Supporting Women

A Caring, Gender-Informed Approach

At River Garden, we understand that women experience substance use, trauma, and recovery in ways that are unique. Women often navigate complex trauma, social isolation, stigma, health issues, and caring responsibilities, which is why our approach is designed to be deeply trauma-informed and gender-sensitive.

We are committed to creating a safe, empowering, and supportive environment where women can truly heal and thrive.

Safety, Support, and Holistic Care

  • Trauma-Informed Spaces: All our staff receive training in trauma-informed, gender-informed practice. Women have access to private spaces, female Key Workers, and dedicated women-only activities where appropriate, focusing on trust, autonomy, and relationship-based recovery.
  • Health and Wellbeing Focus: We ensure easy access to comprehensive health support, including mental health care, reproductive health services, and counselling. We offer women-only therapeutic and peer support groups to address vital topics like self-esteem, boundaries, relationships, and resilience.
  • Tailored Practical Support: Health, housing, and financial support are always tailored to meet women’s specific practical needs.
Two people converse on a garden bench in a sunny garden. One gestures with hands.
Woman in apron checks the temperature of food in a pot with a yellow thermometer in a kitchen.

Family, Empowerment, and Future

  • Caring Responsibilities: We provide guidance and support for maintaining or rebuilding positive contact with children and family members, including support with parenting and family-focused recovery planning.
  • Skills and Independence: We encourage participation in work-based learning, personal development, and peer mentorship. Women have opportunities to develop valuable leadership and vocational skills to support their independence, helping them rediscover their strengths and build a confident life in recovery.

Our dedicated gender-informed pathway directly addresses the unique challenges women face, ensuring they receive the targeted, holistic care needed to achieve sustainable, lasting recovery.