Today, as we mark International Women’s Day, we acknowledge the many inspirational women throughout our charity. With great admiration we share the story of one of our amazing resident at St Catherine’s nursing home, Barbara Hann CBE.
At just 13 years old, Barbara was one of a number of girls who volunteered to help out in her local hospital. Dubbed The Little Sisters, they were an invaluable help at a time when nurses were in short supply.
This was the beginning of Barbara’s commitment to wanting to make a difference and in 1966, aged 29 Barbara became assistant governor at Hollow Prison. Barbara was acutely aware of the challenges the women faced on release, for many it was simple things such as fashion and how to fix their hair and make-up.
Not feelings she was the best person to give this advice, in her own time and at her own expense, Barbara attended a two week grooming course at a top model agency in London’s Mayfair. Freely passing on the knowledge she learnt to the women helped to build confidence and self-esteem, which in turn gave them the best chance of a fresh start.
In 2015 Barbara received a CBE for her work to develop the credit union movement which continues to support those in financial need.
Throughout Barbara’s life she has helped many people, this has been through hard work, determination and choosing to avoid limitations.
Let’s all celebrate today and raise a glass to the amazing women around us.
#ChoosetoChallenge #internationalwomensday #iwd
