My Sisters' House - From Kitchen table to Women's Centre is a story of women supporting women, of the impact of pain, loss, abuse, and poverty suffered by women but also of inspiration, strength, resilience, drive, passion and determination shown by the same women. Julie recalls those childhood days in a 'tense' environment, those early young adult days with that lovely feeling that life is in front of you and everything's possible. She then transports you to some 30 years later when she bravely gives up a highly paid job to set up a women's centre. Creating change from one small act into many that collide to make a real difference to women's lives - but is it ever enough?
This book will widen your understanding of women's issues in today's world. Abby (not her real name) who suffers multiple issues such as abuse, addictions, eating disorder, poor mental health, chaotic lifestyle, no family support and lives a troubled life. She appears at the Centre in survival mode, she's been drinking. Abby's story does not have a good ending.
Whilst this book will take you through an inspiring uplifting emotional story full of learnings, real life & hope, it is also a true story of many women who need more help.
This book needs to be best seller - it is a fundraiser - so we can open the door more, have more specialist staff and ultimately open a supported housing therapy house so the Abby's of the world can thrive.
Julie Budge is an award-winning Founder & CEO of My Sisters'House Women's Centre. Thirty years of working in various roles in the Voluntary Community Sector, with an expertise in fundraising and a passion for helping women in need.
Dame Julie Walters DBE said the book is "Beautiful, so brace & wise, ultimately uplifting, even if it did make me cry several times."
2020 Women of the Year -The Barclays Woman in the Community Award