Celebrating 30 Years of The Magdalene Group
In 2024, The Magdalene Group proudly marked its 30th anniversary – a significant milestone that reflects three decades of unwavering commitment to supporting women, girls, and young people affected by sexual exploitation and violence. Since our founding in 1994, we have stood alongside some of the most vulnerable individuals in our communities, offering a lifeline of safety, recovery, and empowerment to those impacted by abuse, coercion, and grooming.
This anniversary was more than a celebration; it was an opportunity to pause and reflect on the thousands of lives we have touched and the progress we have made in breaking cycles of harm. From crisis intervention and outreach services to education and prevention programmes, our work has evolved to meet the changing needs of those we serve. We are proud of how far we have come – building trust, creating safe spaces, and amplifying voices that were once silenced.
Yet, as we look back on these achievements, we are reminded that the journey is far from over. Violence against women and girls remains a pressing issue, and the need for specialist support has never been greater. This milestone year reaffirmed our commitment to continue challenging exploitation, advocating for systemic change, and working tirelessly to create a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear.
The Pearly Ball: A Night to Remember
Our anniversary celebrations culminated in the Pearly Ball, held at The Assembly House in Norwich – a truly unforgettable evening of glamour, community, and purpose. The event welcomed 141 guests who came together to celebrate, learn, and support our mission. Guests enjoyed a beautifully prepared three-course dinner, complemented by fine wine and exceptional service. Live entertainment and music kept the dance floor alive throughout the night, creating an atmosphere of joy and solidarity.
Fundraising was at the heart of the evening, with silent auctions and raffles raising vital funds for our services. Heartfelt speeches from trustees and Suzi Heybourne, our CEO reflected on the organisation’s journey and the lives transformed through our work. A powerful video presentation highlighted the realities faced by women and girls affected by sexual exploitation and violence, reminding everyone why this cause matters. The Pearly Ball was not just a celebration – it was a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to creating a future free from fear and harm. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended, donated, and helped make this milestone event so special.
What a way to celebrate 30 years of safety for women! The Magdalene Group have been making the streets safer for all women for 30 glorious years… It was a night of great company, great wine and great dance moves!
– Caroline Elliott, Trustee
Night-Time Strut: Walking for Change
Another highlight was the second Night-Time Strut, where over 100 women walked through the streets to raise awareness of violence against women and girls. The walk concluded with a midnight vigil honouring the lives of 108 women lost to male violence. This event symbolised solidarity and our determination to break the silence surrounding these issues. Through awareness, education, and advocacy, we aim to ensure that no woman or girl feels alone or without options.
Click here to read more about the Night-Time Strut and how you can get involved.
This year’s night-time strut was a powerful reminder of why we come together, to raise our voices, honour the lives lost, and stand against violence towards women and girls.
Feeling grounded this morning after attending a walk and vigil by The Magdalene Group last night, the theme was raising voices and we had the wonderful Invidia Voices. My takeaway from the night, we will do this until there are no more names to read out.
Conference with Leeway: Shared Commitment
In November 2024, we co-hosted a conference with Leeway to celebrate their 50th anniversary and our own 30-year milestone. The event brought together professionals and advocates to share progress in tackling domestic abuse and violence against women and girls. Speakers included Rachel Millar from the Domestic Abuse Commissioner’s Office, Dr Olumide Adisa on systemic support for migrant survivors, and Janey Starling on improving media representation. Our own Sara Plastow spoke about the Magdalene Group’s services, while survivor voices and experts such as Jonna Barry and Nick Gazzard offered powerful insights into exploitation and safety initiatives.
The conference reinforced the importance of collaboration across sectors and highlighted practical steps for early intervention and prevention. It was a moment to reflect on achievements and renew our commitment to creating safer communities.
How You Can Continue to Help
We are incredibly proud of how far The Magdalene Group has come over the past 30 years. During this time, we have supported countless women and girls affected by sexual exploitation, abuse, and violence – helping them find safety, recovery, and hope. Yet, there is still so much more to do, and your support remains vital.
Adopt The Magdalene Group as Your Charity of the Year
Partner with us and undertake essential fundraising activities to sustain our services.
Book Training for Your Staff
Raising awareness is crucial. We offer specialist training programmes to help create safer working environments and empower communities.
Provide Financial Support
Last year alone, we delivered support to 140 women, with each programme costing an average of £2,400. Any financial contribution is greatly appreciated and makes a real difference.
To start the conversation, please contact ceo@magdalenegroup.org.
Let’s stand together and continue raising awareness, ensuring a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear.
