The women we support every day always say it best in my opinion.
We check in regularly to make sure we are meeting women’s needs as best we can, so we can keep learning and improving.
I thought it might be interesting to share some snippets of feedback they’ve kindly shared anonymously in recent our MASH survey. I found reading through the comments very moving.
Obviously it means a lot to know women are getting the support they need and deserve at MASH. But it also strikes me again just how incredibly hard it is for women, their strength, and how many barriers they’re made to navigate.
“I’ve had help with homelessness, drugs, STI checks, talking to the police. MASH make it possible.”
“MASH have been supportive to me on many occasions. I felt suicidal, emotional, broken, depressed. Coming here was the best thing. Thank you, MASH.”
Speaking about health support another woman told us;
“If it hadn’t been for MASH I wouldn’t have gone to A&E when I had blood clots. I got a good result. And the nurse also told me I had tonsillitis. I wouldn’t have done anything about it on my own.”
“I was a victim of domestic violence, and with support from MASH, I’ve moved out of Manchester.”
“I have PIP [Personal Independence Payment] forms to fill in and an assessment that will come up. The thought of doing that alone would definitely have had a negative impact on my wellbeing.”
“MASH have helped me look at myself and have really tried to help me love myself. I’ve got more confidence now.”
“I don’t feel normal or happy in daily life but I do when I come to MASH. Having my nails painted, having brews and having a good chat with lovely staff.”
We’re hugely grateful to everyone who took the time to share their feedback and experiences.
Over the past few months and years we have seen support services cut, suitable housing dwindle, divisions stoked and costs continue to rise.
So it’s no surprise that we have seen a rise in need – the number of women turning to MASH to support and the complexity of what’s going on in their lives.
Women are being forced to be survivors.
It feels like MASH is needed more than ever which is why we’re continually grateful for all our volunteers, supporters, partners and funders.
You help to give women hope which is always so vital.
Annie Emery, MASH CEO
