Community Outreach & Therapeutic Services

We provide a mix of trauma informed crisis work, resettlement, community engagement and group work, offering emotional support to understanding the impact of domestic abuse.

We increase the support available to women who choose to remain in their own homes or relationships by working alongside other agencies and signposting to ensure additional supports in place where needed.
 
We offer support to attend third party appointments including housing, solicitors, and applying for benefits.

The Community Outreach and Therapeutic Service supports women towards greater independence and self-determination by working with them to build their confidence and self-worth. Working with women we promote inclusion into their local communities addressing the isolation and loneliness many feel, especially those living in remote rural communities.
 
Engaging with community groups and working together we carry out person-centred assessments to ensure that all individual needs are recognised, and an equality led service is provided for early and effective interventions, preventing violence/abuse whilst promoting safety and wellbeing.

The group work offered is an essential part of the support for women. We have observed many women over the years developing, flourishing, and gaining confidence. We are aiming to create a stronger and safer community which embraces equality and rejects all forms of violence against women and girls allowing them to thrive as equal citizens.
 
We accept self-referrals and referrals from any professionals that seek permission from the women they are working with.

What we offer
1-1 Community Support
Accessible support for those out in the community who cannot access Marleon House in Elgin and those living in rural isolated areas.
 
Counselling Service
The counselling service is available to women who are already accessing support from Moray Women’s Aid.  Our fully qualified psychotherapist counsellor is supported by a small team of volunteer counsellors who give their time to support the work the organisation does

Peer Support Groups (term time)
Peer support groups aim to give women an opportunity to share experiences with their peers making them feel supported and not alone. The groups use the principles and core beliefs established by the “power to change” Daphne project.  The sessions are one hour and are facilitated at Marleon House running consecutively for 6 weeks. Support can also be given 1-1 by using peer support group agenda for those who cannot make sessions due to working or family commitments.

Mindfulness (arts/crafts/music/hand massage therapy) sessions
Thursday 1pm - 2.30 pm (Term time)
These sessions offer a range of opportunities for women to try new activities and find out what they enjoy doing in a safe and supportive environment.  The sessions include arts and crafts which is facilitated by our resident artist who will help women express their thoughts and feelings using art. Our other volunteers provide hand massages and other therapies that support mental wellbeing.  All our volunteers are PVG checked and have signed a confidentiality statement.

Drop-in sessions. Family social inclusion nights 
 Wednesday 4-5.30pm (Term time)
These sessions are for anyone being supported by Moray Women’s Aid to improve social inclusion and reduce loneliness. They provide an opportunity for individuals or families to socialise and participate in various activities such as quiz nights, prize bingo sessions, games night and party nights at Halloween and Christmas.

Support Hub session 
Tuesday evenings 5.30-8pm
Emotional Support offered for residents who have work/childcare commitments during the day enabling them to seek support in the evening.