Little Sanctuary
Little Sanctuary is a trauma-informed, safe and protected space for women who are among the most marginalised in Plymouth.
Who needs Little Sanctuary?
The women we aim to support have experienced multiple and overlapping forms of harm, including childhood trauma, sexual violence, domestic abuse, repeated abusive relationships, addiction, child removals, homelessness, and offending. Many have also experienced harm within systems and services, leading to deep mistrust and barriers to seeking support.
“City Leaders Unite for Launch of Little Sanctuary and New Action Against Violence Towards Women and Girls.”
11th June 2026
‘Community leaders, elected representatives, faith leaders, charities and partner organisations from across Plymouth gathered today to celebrate the launch of Little Sanctuary, a new trauma-informed safe space for some of the city's most vulnerable women.
The launch event attracted a distinguished audience including local councillors, The Right Reverend James Grier, Anglican Bishop of Plymouth, senior church leaders, representatives from charities and voluntary organisations, statutory agencies, and community partners, all demonstrating a shared commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and supporting women affected by trauma, abuse and exploitation.
Little Sanctuary has been developed through a partnership led by Transforming Plymouth Together, Greenhouse Community Project CIC and community leader, Norma Mullaniff, and will provide a welcoming, women-only environment for those who have experienced multiple forms of disadvantage, including domestic abuse, sexual violence, homelessness, addiction, exploitation and complex trauma. The project aims to reach women who are often unable to access or engage with traditional support services.
Speaking at the opening, organisers highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated, trauma-informed space where women can find safety, build trusting relationships and access practical and emotional support at their own pace.’
Please download full press release here.
The Little Sanctuary team.
Our team brings significant professional expertise alongside lived experience. Our vision is to provide a warm, relational space where women can:
• Rest and feel safe
• Build trusting relationships
• Access practical and emotional support
• Heal from trauma at their own pace
• Take steps towards stability, recovery, and hope
• Reduce barriers to accessing support through a welcoming environment and opportunities to engage comfortably with professionals.
Green Space,
Mutley Plain
Wednesdays
9.30am - 3.30pm
Green Space is based on Mutley Plain. Unlike other women-only spaces in the city, Little Sanctuary will intentionally reach women who often do not engage with, or are excluded from, existing services due to so-called “challenging behaviours” and complex needs.
This setting provides a comfortable environment where professionals can meet with women in a safe and supportive setting. By creating an accessible and inclusive atmosphere, it helps reduce barriers to accessing services and encourages engagement with support.
