Breaking barriers: How Kim Trotter is empowering Ipswich women

As a single mum at 19, Kim Trotter felt invisible. “I had a good family and supportive friends, but I didn’t know how to navigate it all,” she recalls. “I remember going days without speaking to anyone.”

That sense of isolation, despite the support around her, became the driving force behind the creation of Future Female Society (FFS) in 2016—nearly 30 years later. Kim is now using her experiences to help women in Ipswich build connections, gain confidence, and take control of their lives.

Finding purpose: Kim’s journey to empower Ipswich women

When her baby was 18 months old, an unexpected return to work changed everything. “It gave me self-esteem, purpose and a reason to get out of the house,” Kim explains. “I wanted other women to have those same opportunities.” This sparked her desire to create FFS—an organisation built on support, empowerment, and a community where no woman has to face things alone.

More Than Mum: Empowering young mothers

One of FFS’s core programmes, More Than Mum, supports mothers facing challenges such as domestic violence, mental health struggles, or long-term unemployment. It helps women regain confidence, build practical skills, and plan their next steps—transforming lives one achievement at a time.

“For some mums, just getting through the door is a massive achievement,” Kim notes. “That’s just as big a win as someone getting a job or going to university.” These victories are just the beginning of their journey. Since launching, More Than Mum has supported over 300 women.

Hayley called the course her "golden ticket," while Georgia, a teenage mother, secured employment and later won an apprentice-of-the-year award. Each course concludes with a ‘confidence catwalk’, celebrating participants’ growth in front of family and friends.

Despite its success, securing funding has been an ongoing challenge. Since COVID-19, more support has gone toward informal social activities, making it harder to sustain structured, long-term programmes like More Than Mum.

Community spaces: Building support through connection

For Kim, creating opportunities for connection is just as important as providing practical support. FFS runs regular coffee mornings at the New Wolsey Theatre, offering a relaxed space for women to connect and access crucial services. These informal gatherings have led to life-changing outcomes, with 20 women seeking support for domestic abuse and sexual violence after attending.

“Not everyone feels comfortable jumping straight into conversation,” Kim explains. “But creating something together provides a gentle way in. For women who don’t speak English fluently, it helps them feel included without pressure.”

Girls, Where You At?

Kim’s passion for empowering women extends to the next generation. Girls, Where You At? (GWYA) is a programme for young women aged 12–19, where they explore creative careers such as journalism, photography, radio, theatre, and music. Mentored by women already working in these fields, the programme helps participants see the possibilities for their futures.

“If you can see it, you can be it,” Kim says, a mantra that drives the programme’s success. For some, the programme has been transformative. One participant secured an internship at a local art gallery, while 11-year-old Lacey described the experience as “exciting, amazing, and difficult,” adding: “I learnt speaking to people isn’t so bad after all.”

Woman to Woman Radio: Amplifying marginalised voices

FFS also runs Woman to Woman Radio, a platform that gives migrant, refugee, and asylum-seeking women a chance to share their stories, discuss important issues like migration and mental health, and develop digital skills. Despite a pause last October due to funding challenges, the programme is back for another year, thanks to grants from Suffolk County Council and the East of England Co-op.

“These women’s stories deserve to be heard,” Kim says. One recent broadcast featured Annie, who spoke openly about living with autism and ADHD, highlighting the diverse voices that need amplification.

Building lasting change in Ipswich

With new premises on Tower Street, FFS is expanding its programmes and strengthening its connections with Ipswich Community Radio and the New Wolsey Theatre. “We don’t need to be huge,” Kim says. “We just need to sustain what we do—because we know it works.”

Kim’s work continues to challenge stigma, combat isolation, and create transformative opportunities for women across Ipswich. Her vision is clear: lasting change is built on trust, support, and a commitment to empowerment.

How you can help

Future Female Society relies on community support to continue its important work. Whether through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness, every contribution helps. “When you support these women, you’re not just changing their lives—you’re shaping the future of Ipswich,” Kim says.

Find out more and support their work at www.futurefemalesociety.org.uk.