Roshni Asian Women's Project

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Half of the Asian community is invisible and relatively silent. The men blazed a trail into Europe and established a beachhead for their families. Muslim establishments, mosques and clubs in general and other services seem geared towards men and their sons. Housewives and mothers are totally self-sufficient and don't require aid. The presumption is quite false.

In the nineties two social workers from the Muslim Women's Social Group, which had informally organised Eid Celebrations and day trips, assembled a steering group from different cultural backgrounds to form Roshni. The group organises and promotes education and training and is based centrally on Barton Street.

Training includes IT and sewing plus Crèche facilities, holiday activities and a homework club for young children. There are also health and fitness drives. On a lighter note, the band of women organise Eid Celebrations and excursions.Currently Roshni has a membership of over 300 people, including young single women.