A WOMAN who has worked with young homeless women from Winsford for almost 20 years is set to retire.

Shielah Abbott works as the manager of Cotswold House, a centre based at a secret address in the town that provides accommodation for homeless women who are often in physical or mental pain.

Cotswold House, which belongs to Weaver Vale Housing Trust, can accommodate up to eight young women or mothers, aged 16 to 30 with young babies or toddlers up to the age of two.

Shielah, who has two grown-up children of her own, said: "I treat each guest like I would treat my own daughter. They are made to feel part of a family.

"We also teach them to look after themselves in mind and body - as some of them need to overcome physical or mental pain. Cotswold House is a way of life for me with the added bonus of being paid."

Shielah herself became a single mum when her children were just aged three and four.

She said: "I know exactly what it's like. I can identify with young single mums. Around 30 or 40 years ago there was more of a stigma attached to being a single parent but times have changed.

"We provide support for young, pregnant women in need of somewhere to stay because in some cases they do not have any family support.

"I have loved my job at Cotswold House and I will miss all the girls here, but I will pop back and visit from time to time."

During her retirement, Shielah plans to enjoy a holiday in Spain or Portugal with her nine-year-old granddaughter. Her other hobbies include gardening, reading, swimming and walking her dog.

Steve Jennings, chief executive of the housing trust, said that Shielah would be missed.

"Shielah has devoted the last 19 years to caring for young women in need of a helping hand, a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on. She is a real asset to this community and it will be difficult to replace her."

rfraser@guardiangrp.co.uk