For our second interview to mark International Women’s Day 2022, we spoke to Jane Williams, founder of the grassroots organisation the Magpie Project.
Based in Newham, east London, the Magpie Project aims to provide a ‘safe and fun place’ for women with children under five who live in temporary or insecure accommodation. It offers a combination of practical support – such as legal and housing advice – as well as supplementary activities, from classes with dancers-in-residence to crafting workshops. Williams tells us how important these experiences are for the women they support.
What is The Magpie Project, and why does it exist?
The Magpie Project is a charity based in east London that provides support and advocacy, as well as play facilities and a baby bank, for women with children under school age who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
It was founded in 2017 by a group of women who were concerned about the difficult time mothers and under-fives were having in temporary or insecure accommodation in our neighbourhood. We resolved to try to give them somewhere clean, enjoyable and supportive to spend time during the day.