The Spark outreach van is packed full of essentials many of the women need , but often can ’ t buy for themselves . From condoms and wipes to vitamins , panic alarms and naloxone , Zoe hands out the daily essentials needed to help active users . Also in her van are two drawers of snacks – a favourite among many of the women . ‘ Many of them don ’ t have people who care about them , that ’ s why I let them know they can ring me anytime – I ’ d rather them have someone than no one .’
Zoe Brindle builds trust through her weekly outreach service , providing Blackburn ’ s sex workers with supplies needed to reduce harm and stay safe .
During the three years she ’ s been working in her role , Zoe has seen an increase in violence towards vulnerable women . To combat this growing issue , she frequently works with the dedicated RASSO ( rape and serious sexual offences ) team in Lancashire Police to help keep women safe .
‘ Many women won ’ t go to line-ups on their own without professional support – that ’ s why it ’ s important to provide a support service and organise appointments for them ,’ she states . ‘ There are a lot of pre-trial appointments , but it ’ s essential to assist them through the process to get the best result in the end . It will ensure more dangerous men are kept off the streets from harming more women in future .’
HEALTHIER FUTURES Vulnerable women often face intergenerational cycles of poverty and addiction , starting at birth . Specialist substance use midwife Louise Marsden has been in her role – which is dual commissioned by East Lancashire Teaching Hospitals and Spark – for the last 13 months , using her previous experience as a midwife and nurse to support women in creating pathways towards a healthier future for themselves and their babies . ‘ Having a
baby is a good time in people ’ s life to make the changes ,’ she says . ‘ It gives people a reason to seek help .’
Louise provides comprehensive education on the effects of substances like alcohol , cannabis , cocaine , and prescription drugs on pregnancy and newborns – including miscarriage , preterm birth , and sudden infant death syndrome . She also discusses critical topics such as safe sleeping , the impact of substance withdrawal on babies , and the likelihood of hospital stays for neonatal monitoring .
‘ Once women are referred to us , we try to get as much information as possible and provide holistic care ,’ she says . ‘ Women who struggle with social issues don ’ t want to repeat their story . They want one person who can be a confidante . I get to know them inside out and that ’ s mutually beneficial . The trust allows us to help more . They need to know what is available and how to access that support .’
Louise recalls one particularly moving case of a young woman born into substance misuse who lived in foster care for many years . After four previous pregnancies were removed from her care , she decided to engage with services following her mother ’ s passing .
PARENTAL BOND Despite homelessness and significant personal challenges , Louise and recovery practitioner Katie Newman supported the 25-year-old through housing , prenatal care , and delivery . The courts recognised the woman ’ s commitment and allowed her to retain custody of her baby . ‘ The bonding she has with her baby and confidence to be a parent is really rewarding to see ,’ says Louise .
Louise and Katie work closely together to help provide the best outcome for women seeking substance use support during pregnancy . While Louise focuses on pregnancy support , Katie concentrates on creating a recovery pathway – including signposting and supporting women into rehab , detox and future services .
‘ This work requires patience , compassion , and a non-judgmental approach ,’ says Louise . ‘ When women are ready to engage , the transformations are incredible . The rewarding part is seeing how people grow . When people see that women can change with opportunity and have the tools and opportunities , that ’ s rewarding too .’
SPECIALIST CARE Spark is a recovery collaborative , providing a wide range of support across Blackburn with Darwen through partner groups and local community venues . Each of the recovery partners offers specialist care , ensuring people receive the support they need for every step of their recovery journey .
Despite the progress , challenges persist . Limited housing options for women and the rising use of substances like ketamine among younger populations
‘ Women who struggle with social issues don ’ t want to repeat their story . They want one person who can be a confidante .’
LOUISE MARSDEN
emphasise the ongoing need for services like Spark .
Spark ’ s work in Blackburn is a testament to the power of persistence , empathy , and collaboration . For women facing substance use issues , services like Spark provide a lifeline , offering hope and a path toward a healthier future for themselves – and their babies .
Emma Marsden is senior communications officer at Spark
To support or access Spark recovery services , please visit sparkbwd . org . uk
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