TV actresses join Crewe charity in amplifying women’s voices at upcoming events

Her-Place Charitable Trust is staging a series of connected initiatives, focused on raising awareness of trauma, family courts, child removal, and the realities faced by many women navigating social care systems.

On February 26, Her-Place will host the Turning the Tide Conference from 10am–2pm at Alexanders Ltd, Rufus Court, Chester.

The conference will bring together professionals from across sectors to explore trauma, domestic abuse, and the lived experiences of women and children involved in the Family Court system.

The event will include the premiere of Her-Place’s short film, The Tide, starring Poppy-Lee Friar, and written/directed by Anne-Marie Scragg, which captures the confusion, fear, and emotional impact many mothers experience when navigating the UK court system, while challenging stereotypes and calling for change.

“Too often, trauma is misunderstood or overlooked within family court processes,” said Kate Blakemore, CEO of Her-Place Charitable Trust.

“Through our conference and film, we aim to help people better understand the realities faced by many women and to influence more compassionate, positive change.”

In March, Her-Place is also proud to partner with Her-Productions on Vignettes, six short plays by local female playwrights, telling stories of women and mothers navigating social care systems.

The plays will run from 4–8 March 2026 at Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester and writers include Coronation Street actress Channique Sterling Brown and Lisa Holdsworth, part of Emmerdale’s writing team.

“Raising awareness through creativity is vital,” added Kate. “The plays, alongside the film and conference, help bring these experiences to life and support greater understanding of the challenges many women face.”

Sally Carmen, Coronation Street actress and Patron of Her-Place Charitable Trust (pictured) added: “The stories being shared through these plays and the film reflect lived experiences that are too often hidden or judged.

“Women experiencing child removal are frequently misunderstood, yet the reality is that anyone can find themselves in this situation. These projects remind us to listen with compassion rather than judgement, and to recognise the humanity behind every story.”

For more information about the Believe project that supports mums visit her-place.co.uk