We were incredibly proud to collaborate with HER Productions on Vignettes, a powerful series of short plays performed at Hope Mill Theatre, shining a light on the real and often unheard experiences of women and mothers navigating social care systems.
Through six thought-provoking pieces written by female playwrights, the production explored deeply personal and complex stories such as care leavers finding their way, mothers who have experienced the trauma of having a child removed, and families navigating life within the care system. These are stories that are rarely told, but so important to be heard.
Blending humour, honesty and raw emotion, the performances captured the realities many women face from pregnancy and motherhood to the challenges of engaging with systems that are meant to support, yet can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating.
Importantly, the production also highlighted the difficult role of social workers by showing the complexity, pressure and emotional weight they carry as they make decisions that impact lives every day.
The production has been described as “a powerful showcase of women’s voices”, creating space for conversations that are often difficult, but necessary.
As a charity, this work reflects the lived experiences we see every day—women facing complex circumstances, making incredibly difficult decisions, and showing immense strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Our CEO Kate Blakemore stated “The plays highlighted both the changes that need to be made; the social system and the stigma many mums face when social care becomes involved.”
By working alongside HER Productions, we were able to support a project that not only raises awareness but also challenges perceptions and sparks vital conversations around social care, motherhood and the support women truly need.
Her Productions director Hannah quoted “It was a pleasure working with Her-Place to highlight such an important area that needs urgent changes.”
We are so grateful to have been part of such a meaningful and impactful production, and to everyone involved in bringing these stories to life.
A special thank you to the talented writers who created these powerful pieces.
Because every woman’s story deserves to be heard.