Welcome to Example Federation

Helen CarterFederation Chairman

Welcome to Hampshire Federation of Women's Institutes

Formed in 1918 our federation currently has 199 WIs and 7, 353 members. Each WI is unique in style, size and character and each has its own personality and  programme for its members. Based in villages, towns and cities there is bound to be one near you, if not we can look to form one. Apart from monthly meetings with a speaker or demonstration many WIs have an extra wide range of activities including book clubs, theatre trips, walking, darts, craft, lunch and Mah Jong groups.

Hampshire is a beautiful County to live in with coastal areas, The New Forest, The South Downs, and the historic cities of Winchester, Southampton and Portsmouth amongst others. Famous people from Hampshire include Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.  We have many visitor attractions such as Highclere Castle, Odiham Castle and many beautiful ancient churches and cathedrals. There are unique hamlets and villages with thatched cottages and welcoming communities, many with their own special story to tell such as the village of Wherwell and Enham Alamein. One of Hampshire’s most famous assets is its homegrown watercress found growing and produced in its clear chalkstream waters. We are blessed with many rivers such as The Test, Backwater, Itchen and Meon with restful walks alongside the flowing waters.

Our federation runs many events and activities for members and takes part in  Shows such as The Hampshire and New Forest County show.  Alresford, and Littleton & Harestock as well as individual WIs supporting their own local events. We are open to suggestions for new events, activities and areas to get involved in.  Our Board of Trustees are the Governing body overseeing all aspects of the federation  and supporting the staff. We have a small friendly staff team who support the Board, our team of advisers and WI members. The staff welcome enquiries either by telephone, email or in person at WI House. Please check opening times of the house as staff are currently working from home. The WIs and the Federation are under the umbrella of The National Federation Of Women’s Institutes, with approximately 220,000 members in England and Wales and we are the largest voluntary organisation for women.  With National campaigns and resolutions the WI is a force to be reckoned with.

We look forward to welcoming new members and supporting existing ones. We are inclusive and whatever your interests we can inspire you. You can find local WIs on the ‘WI Search’ toolbar on the HCFWI Website.  If you can’t find one locally get in touch and we will see what we can do. Contact secretary@hampshirewi.org.uk or 02380 616712. Look forward to seeing you soon.

Helen

Helen Carter

Chairman HCFWI

www.hampshirewi.org.uk