The Wiltshire Federation of Women’s Institutes (WFWI) has celebrated the WI’s 110th anniversary with a special event recognising members who volunteer to support victims of domestic abuse.
The celebration, held at Willowbrook View care home in Wichelstowe, Swindon, highlighted the WI’s partnership with Society Without Abuse (SWA) and the Wiltshire Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Coalition (EVAWG). Together, the groups are aiming to train at least 200 WI members as SWA Ambassadors – trusted points of contact within local communities who can listen and discreetly signpost support.
Ambassadors wear a small badge showing they have completed specialist training from SWA, intended as a subtle signal to those seeking help. More training sessions are planned as the initiative grows.
The event brought together WI members already trained as Ambassadors, alongside Nicky Alberry, Chair of SWA, and Lady Lansdowne, Chair of Wiltshire EVAWG.
Gill Gibson-Piggott of WFWI reflected on the organisation’s history: “In many ways, the world in 1915 was very different but the fight against inequality continues. The suffragettes and founders of the WI were fighting for the vote. Over a century later, the World Economic Forum says worldwide gender equality will not be reached until 2158. Standing together to say ‘enough’ to violence and abuse is as important now as it was over a hundred years ago.”
Lady Lansdowne praised the WI’s involvement, saying: “I truly believe that through collaboration we will make a difference faster, and the WI are terrific supporters of our work to make Wiltshire safer. For far too long, victims have carried the weight of someone else’s crime. We need to get domestic abuse on everyone’s agenda – and we’re starting to see real change.”
Nicky Alberry added her thanks: “WI members are making a huge difference. With over 30 already trained and more to come, we’re building a county-wide network of women who will listen, support and raise awareness. This is how real cultural change begins.”
Willowbrook View’s General Manager, Jane Edwards, said the care home was honoured to host the celebration: “With so many wonderful ladies living and working under our roof, it is only right that we stand in solidarity with women who desperately need help and support. The WI and its partners are on the frontlines of that struggle – so here’s to another 110 years of incredible work.”
For more details on the Ambassador programme visit www.societywithoutabuse.org.uk.
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