A Langford mental health campaigner has organised a donation drive for women needing refuge support in Biggleswade – and it all starts with a handbag.
Hannah Brown created the ‘Love in a Bag Biggleswade’ Facebook page after being inspired by a similar group in Bedford – which asks for toiletries and other items like socks, hair accessories and stationery to be placed in a handbag and donated.
She told the Comet: “I got in contact with them as I knew how the community of Biggleswade can really pull together. I asked the organiser if I could take it on in Biggleswade and they gave me their blessing.
“I’ve always done Operation Christmas Child, and this is an opportunity to give back to people that are local. There is a refuge in Biggleswade so the need is there – and everybody deserves to feel special at Christmas, especially vulnerable women.”
When asked what response she’s had from the Biggleswade community since starting the page, Hannah said: “Oh my gosh, my conservatory is full of bags!
“I have had so many people come up to me and ask about the scheme and what to put in bags, so the response has been overwhelming.
“There’s not a woman out there who doesn’t have an old handbag that she can fill with bits, and there is that solidarity there, with women wanting to help each other out.”
Hannah – who has suffered with anorexia – campaigns for better mental health treatment in Bedfordshire and has founded the website An Ear to Hear, which provides support to those with eating disorders.
So where does she find the time for Love in a Bag?
“I guess the answe is I don’t, but that’s why I am really lucky that people have supoported me,” she said.
“I have set up the Facebook page and things like that, but real credit has to go to the women of Biggleswade for their donations.”
Hannah has asked for bags to be donated by December 10 – but some could be taken after that date if need be.
All you need to do is get an old handbag in good condition and fill it with sealed items like shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and sanitary items, as well as any other items that could be of use to women who are having to use a shelter. No pharmaceuticals, fresh foods or drinks.
Bags can be taken to Biggleswade’s Blinds and Shutters shop or to the town council offices.
Go to https://www.facebook.com/loveinabagbiggleswade/ to find out more.
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