Introduction

The Mothers' Union is a worldwide organization with over 4 million members in 83 countries and it's vision is for faith and families.

100 women of some  20 different nationalities

The needs of families may differ around the world, but where there is a M.U. presence they endeavour to meet that need.

“English for Women” was started 2 years ago and was run by the cathedral to provide help with English speaking for a group of Afghan wives who had arrived in England with nothing. 
 
Its aim was to aid long term integration  of migrant and refugee families by providing a free drop-in centre  offering English classes for women and a positive play environment for their pre-school children, it also raises awareness of British culture, nutrition and practical life skills. It is informal  and women learn through conversation and so they grow in confidence. It also helps children as they are not kept off school to translate for their mothers if they need to go to the doctors etc. 
 
It started with just 3 Afghan women and now has 100 women and their children, of some 20 different nationalities speaking 24 languages. This all takes place in the Y.M.C.A. premises in Chelmsford with a nursery plus 60 volunteers and is open 3 days a week. Volunteers must be English speaking women, not necessarily teachers ,they work to themes each week which are taught through conversation. They do receive safeguarding training. 
 
“English for Women” is not a school or college but an informal drop-in centre for conversation and language practice. At the Chelmsford Diocesan Mothers’ Union Council it was announced that the trustees had agreed to take on the project from 1st. January 2018. Members voted unanimously to set up a restricted fund for this project.

Most recently, the Branch has been awarded a bronze award for their support and raising awareness of domestic abuse using the Rise Up campaign. Two members were invited to the head office, Mary Sumner House, in London in recognition of this.
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Caroline Wheeler is the Branch Leader, 07821195388, e-mail: carolinewheeler@live.co.uk.  For more information please visit the Mothers' Union web site or for local information ring the Assistant Branch Leader Jeannette Cardnell, 01268 452309, email: jandfcardnell@blueyonder.co.uk.