Adelaide House recently celebrated the completion of a major refurbishment with a special service of blessing, giving thanks for the transformation of the building and the opportunities it will create for the women who call it home.
Bishop Ruth and Bishop Simon joined residents, staff, trustees and members of the refurbishment team to bless the house and pray for all who live and work there. The celebration also provided an opportunity to thank the architects, site manager and everyone whose expertise and commitment made the project possible.
As part of the celebrations, Bishop Ruth also licensed Ellen Loudon, Chair of Trustees for Adelaide House and Director of Social Justice, to serve as a priest across the Diocese of Liverpool. In this role, Ellen will be available to support parishes by leading services with the permission of the incumbent and/or churchwardens.
A Refurbishment That Supports Changing Lives
The refurbishment has created a brighter, more welcoming and more accessible environment throughout Adelaide House. Bedrooms, bathrooms, social spaces and meeting rooms have all been renovated, while adaptable, robust furniture has been installed to ensure the building can continue to meet the needs of residents for years to come.
Staff workspaces have also been refreshed, creating an improved environment for the dedicated team who provide daily support to women living at Adelaide House.
One of the most significant outcomes of the project is the creation of accessible accommodation, enabling Adelaide House to support women with additional mobility needs and ensuring more women can benefit from the specialist support offered there.
A Place of Hope and Support
Adelaide House Female Approved Premises, based in Liverpool, is one of only six Approved Premises for women in England. It provides residential support and interventions for up to 18 women aged 18 and over who are serving part of their sentence in the community on licence following release from prison.
Management and staff take a holistic, women-centred and needs-led approach, recognising the complex challenges many residents face. Through enhanced supervision within a structured and supportive environment, the experienced team helps women rebuild their lives, develop independence and move forward with hope.
Continuing a Long Tradition of Service
Adelaide House is the principal work of the Liverpool Diocesan Council of Social Aid (LDCSA), a diocesan charity with more than 200 years of history serving vulnerable people across the region.
The refurbishment represents a significant investment in the future of the house, ensuring that Adelaide House can continue to offer a safe, supportive and dignified environment where women have the opportunity to rebuild their lives and prepare for a positive future.
If you would like to know more about LDCSA, Adelaide House or our Prison Week work please contact either Ellen Loudon ellen.loudon@liverpool.anglican.org or Clare Blackburn admin.ldcsa@ldcsa.org.uk
