This International Women’s Day, we are spotlighting a woman founded organisation called Cassandra Centre founded by Jennifer McDermott, whose work is rooted in love, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her community.
How it started?
The organisation was founded following the tragic loss of her daughter, Cassandra, and the long and painful legal proceedings that followed. Through that devastating experience, she came face to face with the stark reality of how limited and fragmented support can be for young people navigating trauma, instability, and complex life circumstances.
“There were very few identifiable services that young people could turn to,” she reflects. “I saw how many were facing serious challenges without the guidance, safe spaces, or trusted adults they needed.”
Having grown up in Wandsworth and always considered the borough home, she felt a deep responsibility to give something back to the community that shaped her. Determined to turn pain into purpose, she set out to build a service where young people could feel safe, valued, and truly understood.
Her aim was clear: to create early support that prevents crises, strengthens resilience, and gives young people the confidence and tools to make positive choices about their futures. At its heart, the organisation exists to ensure that no young person in Wandsworth feels unseen or unsupported.
Community
Jennifer understands what it means to navigate barriers, juggle multiple responsibilities, and keep moving forward even when the path is uncertain. This lived experience informs how she leads by listening deeply, creating inclusive spaces, and ensuring that everyone feels respected and heard.
Central to her approach is building a sense of sisterhood within the community. She believes in creating spaces where women and girls can uplift one another, share their stories, and feel safe to express themselves. Giving voice to those who often feel voiceless is not an aspiration, it is part of the organisation’s mission. Through this leadership, she not only supports others but empowers them to recognise their own strength and potential.
Building a safe space for the community
Among the impacts she is most proud of is the development of the organisation’s therapeutic support services, which have become a lifeline for many families. Providing a trusted space particularly for women who have experienced long-term trauma has allowed individuals to reconnect with themselves, rediscover their identities, and begin rebuilding hope.
Safeguarding is embedded at the core of the organisation’s work. Young people and families are protected, listened to, and taken seriously. Advocacy plays a crucial role, ensuring concerns are acted upon quickly, compassionately, and professionally. This safeguarding culture has helped families feel safer and more confident when navigating difficult circumstances.
“Seeing people find their voice, rebuild trust, and feel genuinely safe in our care is one of the most meaningful impacts of all,” she shares. “It reminds me every day why this work matters.”
Like many grassroots organisations, the journey has not been without challenges.
Securing a suitable long-term space has been one of the most significant hurdles. A stable and accessible base is vital for building continuity and trust, two foundations that are essential when supporting vulnerable families.
Long-term funding remains another ongoing challenge. Sustainable resources are crucial for retaining skilled staff, planning ahead, and delivering consistent support rather than short-term, stop-start services. Navigating funding cycles can be demanding, particularly when community need is so high.
What keeps her going is purpose. Every young person who grows in confidence and every woman who begins to heal reinforces why the organisation exists. The memory of her daughter, Cassandra, alongside the memory of Sarah Everard and all women and families affected by homicide, continues to guide her work. Their stories strengthen her commitment to creating safer, more supportive spaces within the community.
Support from partners, volunteers, and a strong network of women, a sisterhood provides encouragement even during the most challenging moments.
A message for International Women’s Day
This International Women’s Day, she is also choosing to shine a light on an issue often left unspoken: peri-menopause.
For many women, this stage of life brings significant physical, emotional, and social changes that are rarely discussed openly. By naming it and encouraging open conversations, she hopes to create understanding, reduce stigma, and ensure that no woman feels isolated or ashamed.
“No woman should feel confused or unsupported about what her body is going through. When we talk openly, we empower one another.”
Through courage, compassion, and community leadership, this founder is creating lasting change in Wandsworth ensuring that young people are protected, seen, safe and that women are supported, and no one feels alone in their journey.
Cassandra Centre has an upcoming event!
They will be joined by Dr Zoe Schaedel, whose expertise will guide you through a comprehensive and insightful discussion on perimenopause.
Join on Thursday 19th March from 1:30pm at Arding and Hobbs SW11 1QN.
Please book your free place via Eventbrite using the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/casssandra-centres-international-womens-day-at-arding-and-hobbs-tickets-1982352274015?aff=oddtdtcreator
