Leeds based Women’s Counselling and Therapy Service strengthens support with Inspire North partnership

The Women’s Counselling and Therapy Service (WCTS) has become part of Inspire North, the leading Leeds based mental health and housing organisation whose services span Yorkshire and the Northeast.

Since 1982, WCTS has worked with women and girls from across the Leeds area facing complex health and social situations, helping them to recover from experiences of abuse, violence, neglect, trauma and mental ill health.

The organisation is renowned for its expertise in trauma-specialised counselling and therapy, delivered by an all-women team for women and girls.

Violence against woman and girls remains a widespread problem. Over one in four women experience sexual assault or domestic abuse in their lifetime. The need for the services provided by WCTS has never been more acute. There is a natural synergy between both organisations that adds support to WCTS becoming a valued subsidiary of Inspire North.

Through this partnership both organisations will strive to ensure that women and girls receive the support they need and together both organisations can work together to grow and develop these services.

Ruth Kettle, CEO at Inspire North, will assume the role of CEO at WCTS, as current CEO, Tessa Denham, steps down after a decade of dedicated leadership.

Ruth Kettle said: “We’re excited to welcome WCTS into the Inspire North family; this partnership comes at a critical time—when demand for trauma-informed, specialist support for women and girls is rising, but resources are under pressure.”

She added: “Ongoing financial and structural pressures on the voluntary and community sectors continue to challenge the sustainability of many organisations. Together, we’re committed to safeguarding and growing the vital services WCTS provides for women and girls across Leeds.”

Jackie Whittle, Chair at WCTS, said: “This decision was made with a deep sense of responsibility to the women we serve. Inspire North shares our feminist values, our commitment to trauma-informed practice, and our belief in collaboration – and we are confident this partnership will enhance our ability to support women now, and into the future.”

“This development marks a bold new chapter for both organisations, rooted in shared values of empowerment, inclusion, and mental wellbeing. Together, WCTS and Inspire North look forward to building stronger, more sustainable services for the women and girls they serve.”