Boscombe’s BH1 Project pampers local women in celebration of International Women’s Day

The BH1 Project, a vital drop-in centre run by The Salvation Army in Boscombe, transformed its space into a sanctuary of relaxation and celebration this week to honour International Women’s Day. The special event offered vulnerable women in the community a day of pampering, connection, and support, thanks to generous funding from AFC Bournemouth.

While International Women’s Day fell on Sunday, 8 March, the BH1 Project hosted its celebration on Tuesday to ensure maximum attendance. The centre, which typically sees 50 to 70 people daily, opened its doors exclusively to women, providing a safe and welcoming environment away from the usual hustle.

The afternoon was filled with treats designed to make the women feel special and valued. Attendees enjoyed cream tea, participated in a fun quiz, and took part in craft activities. However, the highlight of the day was the array of professional pampering services on offer. A qualified masseuse provided relaxing neck and shoulder massages, while a hairdresser and beautician were on hand to offer styling and beauty advice. Everyone received a small gift bag to take home.

Annette Watts, who manages the BH1 Project, explained the motivation behind the dedicated women’s day. 

“We wanted to create a safe space where women can come to simply relax and feel pampered, special, and valued. Most importantly, we want them to know that despite life’s difficult moments—whether it’s homelessness, a rough relationship, job loss, or loneliness—there is always a band of women here who care. We’re here to offer a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on. We believe that letting people know they don’t have to suffer alone is a message of hope we can all share.”

The event was an extension of the centre’s ‘Women Together’ group, a weekly Wednesday afternoon safe space established thanks to a £2,000 grant from AFC Bournemouth. The grant enables the group to provide coffee, cake, clothes, and makeup, and brings in professional services to support women battling addiction, building confidence, and developing life skills.

Annette highlighted the impact of the AFC Bournemouth funding, which makes these services possible. 

“A lot of women can’t afford things like massages or having their hair done. They just love it and benefit from it. Even just looking at different nail varnishes is something else for them to do and enjoy making themselves feel special. One of the ladies that comes was going through an abusive relationship, and we were able to come alongside her and support her. It’s a lifeline.”

The hairdressing services were provided by Anne-Marie, a local hairdresser who volunteered her time after hearing about the project on the radio. 

“I wanted to help really, because I know a lot of the women have been homeless or in those kind of circumstances. It struck a chord and made me think I wanted to help in my way, using my trade. It gives them confidence, but it’s also a need. If their hair is really long and they want it restyled because they haven't been able to have it cut for a long time, it makes a huge difference.”

For Sharlene, it was her first time attending the Women’s Group, and the experience was transformative. 

“I have walked in and I have just been so pleasantly surprised by everything that's available today. There are massages, you can have a haircut, lovely food, good conversation. It's just brought me back to life and taken me out of my shell.”

Having experienced homelessness herself, Sharlene spoke passionately about the vital role BH1 plays. 

“In my time of crisis, I was sleeping underneath a tree, on bench in the park and sometimes in a tent. BH1 is the place where I could do my washing, have a shower, get food. It brought me that human contact, and I felt like I wasn't alone. The volunteers and management all went the extra mile to make sure I got what I needed. Four years later, I've been living successfully on my own.”

The BH1 Project, open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 2 pm, continues to be a lifeline in Boscombe, providing meals, showers, laundry, and essential support to those experiencing homelessness and financial hardship.

To support the work of BH1 Project make a donation via their JustGiving page: Boscombe Salvation Army is fundraising for The Salvation Army.

Beyond homelessness services, the centre through a network of partners, strives to ensure everyone in Boscombe has a place to turn for practical help and friendship. It offers debt advice services; building pathways back into employment; finding affordable accommodation options; and support for those battling addictions.