Women in the Know is a collaborating community, brought together by Kindred in 2023. What started as a group exploring new ideas for creative and social businesses across Knowsley soon focused its attention on ways to strengthen care-related contracts, expand services and make meaningful connections with the NHS and local authorities. In doing so, it has grown into a long-standing network of peers who genuinely support one another.
Now, Kirkby in the Know has opened on St Chad’s Parade in the town. The idea for a shared physical base – a shop front where socially-trading organisations (STOs) can showcase their work – came from the group itself. It will showcase, promote and deliver their work, giving the group a space to take practical steps to encourage the public sector to procure from socially trading organisations.
Andrew Beattie is Kindred’s assistant director for operations and engagement. He says “Women in the Know is a great example of a collaborating community in action. Following our work in Knowsley in 2023, the group has continued to work together and has asked Kindred to support its vision for a base to show its services. It’s a really good opportunity for them to come back together in a physical place in Kirkby. Over the last two years they have stuck together as a supportive group of peers and created a strong local network. They may have asked Kindred to unlock the door for them, but the space will highlight their collective work.”
Knowsley Borough Council has now rented a shop to Kindred on a short-term lease, creating a home for the group, who have continued to collaborate closely since 2023.
One of the original members, Jacqui Meadows, is partnering with Kindred to bring the new ‘In the Know’ pop-up shop to life. The shop gives STOs a central space to showcase, promote, and deliver their work. Just as importantly, it offers somewhere supportive and neutral – a place where organisations can swap knowledge, learn from one another, and collaborate rather than compete.
Jacqui runs Capacity for Change, which will help the shop run smoothly, offering networking opportunities, tailored advice and hands-on guidance for STOs. It will also run drop-in sessions for small and emerging social enterprises, helping them strengthen their ideas, build confidence and take practical steps forward.
The shop will host a series of events, including:
Somatic Therapy workshop
Through gentle movement, breathwork and mindful awareness, you’ll learn how to tune into your body’s natural wisdom and restore balance from within. Perfect for anyone seeking deeper self-awareness, healing and inner calm. No prior experience needed – come as you are.
Thursday 20 November, 12pm (£5)
Book via: Lottieb.somatichypnotherapy[at]gmail.com
Starting a Social Business/ Community Project Workshop
Capacity for Change
Thursday 20 November, 1pm – 4pm (FREE)
Clothing Swap
Bring five items, take five items
Friday 21st November, 6-8pm (£5)
Eco Therapy Garden – Christmas wreath workshop
Come and learn a new skill to keep forever. Learn wreath making and techniques with flower foliage decor and take your creation home to keep.
Saturday 22 November, 1pm (FREE)
Call/ WhatsApp to book: 07913 651814
Starting a Social Business/ Community Project Workshop
Capacity for Change
Thursday 27 November, 1pm – 4pm (FREE)
Somatic Therapy workshop
Through gentle movement, breathwork and mindful awareness, you’ll learn how to tune into your body’s natural wisdom and restore balance from within. Perfect for anyone seeking deeper self-awareness, healing and inner calm. No prior experience needed – come as you are.
Friday 28 November, 1-2:30pm (£5)
Book via: Lottieb.somatichypnotherapy[at]gmail.com
Community cancer care circle
Friday 28 November, 1pm (FREE)
ClayKind Clay Afternoon
Two-hour clay crafting workshop – create a piece to take home in a guided class
Sunday 30 November (£10 per person – includes all material)
Cath Garvey’s Christmas card LEGO printing
For ages 8+
Sunday 30 November, 10-12
Full address:
13 St Chad’s Parade, Kirkby, L32 8RD