Leamington Home For Girls

Leamington Home for Girls was one of the first homes established by the Society, and was known by many names throughout its lifetime. The original Home, on Clarendon Avenue, was established in 1884 by Mrs Leigh, who was the wife of the Rev Canon Leigh. The Home grew rapidly to accommodate eighteen girls (aged 6-16) and became very successful under the management of Miss Butlin for twelve years. The Society's newsletter Our Waifs and Strays described Leamington as “the most charitable town in England”, and printed a glowing report of the Home's “bright and attractive” dormitories.

The second incarnation of the Home opened on October 11th 1896 with a dedication by the Rev W.C. Furneaux. This Home was “roomy and commodious” in comparison with their old house at Clarendon Avenue, with a gravel playground out the back. This home ran from 1896 - 1915 and was called the Worcester Diocesan Training Home for Girls, at 4 Portland Place. Miss Meyer worked as matron, with Miss Garrett as the Lady Superintendent, and Miss Grainger as Honorary Secretary.

The Home moved again in 1915 and adopted the name, St Anne's Home for Girls. Although we do not know why, the Archdeacon of Warwick did not officially open and dedicate St Anne’s until March 14th 1923. This home, situated at 6 Warwick New Road, kept much the same staff as before, with Miss Grainger as Honorary Secretary. The new building could accommodate twenty-five girls, aged between six to sixteen.

The Home continued to prosper, and in 1950 it started to look after boys as well as girls.