Marie Rock: Founder of Modern Matriarchs — Creating Safe Spaces for Women

Marie Rock is the founder and director of Modern Matriarchs, a community interest company rooted in North East Lincolnshire and built from years of lived experience, frontline care work, and a deep understanding of the challenges women face — especially those who’ve experienced abuse, trauma, or the limitations of low-opportunity environments.

Having worked as a nurse and housing officer, Marie saw the same patterns repeat again and again: women who had survived difficult circumstances but felt stuck, unheard, and isolated. “I wanted to reach the women who fall through the gaps. Those who feel they’re not ‘enough’ for traditional services or are unsure if they even count. Modern Matriarchs is for them.”

The mission behind Modern Matriarchs

Modern Matriarchs is built on the belief that women are already strong — but community support can remind them of their strength and help them grow. Marie named the initiative in honour of the powerful, often-unrecognised women who keep families, communities, and culture alive.

What they offer

Weekly drop-in sessions provide warm, welcoming spaces for women to connect, chat, and be heard. The “Straightening Your Crown” course is a 6-week programme combining confidence-building with practical topics like hair, beauty, and self-care. A planned public mural for International Women’s Day will celebrate local women’s stories through collaborative art.

“The women who come to our sessions often say it’s the first time they’ve felt truly seen and supported. They come for the conversation — and stay for the community.”