Our WI
Stroud Evening WI is part of the National Federation of Women's Institutes (NFWI), the largest women's organisation in the UK. Founded in 1983, our group is perfect for women of all ages looking for a place to find friendly, engaging, and supportive women to enjoy new experiences!
We have monthly meetings featuring guest speakers, activities, and social gatherings, covering a wide range of topics (see our program for this year's speakers). Beyond our main meetings, we also organise:
- Social events & day trips
- Workshops and skills-based learning
- Charity fundraising & community projects
We are an inclusive and welcoming group, where friendships are formed, ideas are shared, and laughter is guaranteed.
✨ New members welcome! Click here to find out how to join.
Our History
Stroud Evening WI was formed in November1983, a time of neon leggings, big shoulders and cassette tapes. Inaugural meetings took place in the Tin Hut, a rustic haven where debate and laughter as well as tea and cakes filled the hall. Unfortunately, the hall, originally a memorial to those who served in the First World War, became too dilapidated for meetings and Stroud Evening WI embarked on a quest for a new home, a place where they could continue to acquire new skills, nurture their talents and debate resolutions. They found a new base in Bedales School, but destiny had in mind another chapter and in 2011 they moved to Steep Village Hall where they spent eight happy years. The coronavirus pandemic in 2020 meant an end to face-to-face meetings but the members showed their resilience and collective strength by keeping their community together with Zoom meetings. In August 2021 they re-convened in their spiritual home, the village of Stroud in the new Village Hall where they welcomed several new members from the village.
We have diverse speakers on subjects such as the enigmatic world of Freemasonry to the rhythmic allure of Flamenco Dancing, and a visit to an Herbalist’s Garden keep members captivated. Please see our current list of speakers. We debate and vote on resolutions as wide ranging as dental health matters, cleaner rivers and cervical screening. Members attend the NFWI Annual Meeting and the Hampshire Federation Council Meetings.
We give back to the community in many ways, our volunteers make and bake and serve at various events throughout the year. AS a result we are able to give generously to local charities in the Stroud, Hampshire area. At the Petersfield Orchestra concerts Stroud Evening WI provides substantial afternoon teas for the orchestra and more liquid refreshments for the concertgoers in the evenings. We also provide bacon butties, cakes and teas for local seasonal fairs, helping to raise money for various charities. Our branch was able to fund a commemorative bench at the Stroud Village Hall honouring King Charles III's coronation.