The women-only Chrysalis service, delivered across West Mercia and funded by Smallwood Trust, seeks to enable and empower women and their families to overcome disadvantage, inequality and poverty whilst increasing financial resilience.
Research has shown that women can often feel isolated and disengaged from their local communities, due to feelings of shame, low self-esteem, or personal and social problems. Sometimes they have poor problem-solving skills and can struggle to think positively about their future.
Criteria for Chrysalis Referrals
We have a low threshold criteria to reduce barriers in women accessing the support they need, but all referrals need to satisfy the following criteria to be supported by Chrysalis.
- Female
- Be over 18 years old
- If a professional referral, consent is required prior to the referral been made
- The woman referred / or self-referring should be motivated to engage and make changes in her life however big or small
- Must reside in Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire or Telford & Wrekin.
- Must identify with one or more of these areas of need/support to make the referral
- The areas of Need Include: Motivation & Taking Responsibility, Self care and Living Skills, Managing Money and Personal Admin, Social Networks and Relationships, Drug & Alcohol Misuse, Physical Health, Emotional and Mental Health, Meaningful Use of Time, Managing Tenancy and Accommodation and Offending
Where is this service available?
- Herefordshire (Virtual support only)
- Worcestershire
- Shropshire (Virtual support only)
- Telford & Wrekin (Virtual support only)
How does Chrysalis help?
At Chrysalis, we’re here for women—because no one should have to face life’s challenges alone. Designed and run by women, for women and their families, our service provides a safe, supportive space where every woman is heard, valued, and empowered.
We understand the struggles women can face, and we’re committed to helping each person find their own path forward. At Chrysalis, you are in control of your journey. We support you in setting your own goals, making informed choices, and regaining confidence and independence at your own pace.
Whether we’re supporting you in person or online, our approach is always meaningful and personal. No matter where you are, we’ll ensure you feel connected, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
Our team is here to guide, uplift, and equip you with the skills and support you need to build the life you want. No matter how big or small the step, we’ll be by your side, every step of the way.
You are not alone. We believe in you.
What can you expect from Chrysalis:
At Chrysalis, we meet women and their families on their terms—at times that suit them best. Our flexible approach means we offer both face-to-face appointments and virtual meetings, depending on what feels right for each woman. No matter how we connect, our support is always personal, meaningful, and designed to help you move forward with confidence.
How We Help
- Empowering You with Life Skills – We support women in building essential life skills, helping them feel more confident and in control of their daily lives.
- Bridging the Digital Divide – We guide women through the basics of technology, so they can feel more connected, engaged, and empowered in today’s world.
- Tailored Support, Without Limits – There’s no set list of what we can help with—we support women in whatever areas they need, and we’re privileged to walk alongside them through every step of their journey.
- Quality Time & Individual Focus – We keep our caseloads low so that every woman receives the time, care, and attention she deserves each week.
- Support at Your Own Pace – There’s no rush. We don’t limit the number of sessions—we work with women for as long as they need, at a pace that feels right for them.
At Chrysalis, we’re here to help you build the life you want, in a way that works for you. You are not alone—we’re with you every step of the way.
Discretionary Fund
We are also able to financially help some of the women we support through our Smallwood Trust discretionary fund. This funding enables us to assist women who are facing financial hardship and need to buy essential items such as whitegoods, food, help to pay their electricity/gas bills, or even plug a rent shortfall. These funds are vital for helping women out of crisis and giving them the opportunity and ability to turn their lives around.
Ask us about this service
Do you want to find more about this service? Email us at [email protected]
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Thanks to our Patron, HRH The Princess Royal & our Funders & Partners
