April ‘Fantasy Flowers’
a work of imagination by a local artist and erstwhile Soroptimist Whatever you do, you can be a Soroptimist
1985 was the last year in the United Nations Decade for Women
The decade began when 1975 was designated International Women’s Year.
Since then, 8 March has been International Women’s Day
1990 saw the start of Independent taxation for all married women.
Since then, married women and single women have been treated alike – with independence and privacy
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Since 1976 SI Woking has supported a wide range of projects and charities, including:
Ockenden Trust/International, Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline,
Emergency Committee for the Victims of the Earthquake in Afghanistan,
Refugees and Victims of the War in Ukraine
Enough Campaign
The UK government’s latest campaign to prevent violence by men against women and girls. More here
The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme
The scheme was developed after the passing of ‘Clare’s Law’. Find out how it works and what it does here
Women on Remand
The Prison Reform Trust has a briefing about women held on remand in prison. 25% of the women in prison are waiting for a decision. Read here
‘Medical Misogyny’
The UK Women and Equalities Committee of the UK Parliament published a report in 2024. It said that ‘medical misogyny’ is leaving women in unnecessary pain and undiagnosed for years’. Read more here.
This month, the UK government announced a renewed health strategy for women: ‘Women’s voices to be at the heart of renewed health strategy. Women across the country will be better heard and served under new plans set out in the renewed Women’s Health Strategy. Read more here.
Annual General Meeting – new Presidential team
Outgoing President Silvia Schäfer’s summary of the year: ” I hope you enjoyed the varied programme of speakers this year: from them we gained first-hand knowledge of the situation in Ukraine, advice on keeping safe online, the benefit of Therapy Gardens and the work of Woking Street Angels and much moreo. I was delighted that we were able to secure a donation of £1000 for Woking Street Angels from West Byfleet Golf Club. Our project work included continued support of Your Sanctuary, English conversation sessions and more with Shifa, distribution of Safety contact cards, Orange Cafes and much knitting… Other highlights were our successful hosting of the SI Southern Regional Meeting in September 2025, and very enjoyable social evenings at Christmas and New Year. These social events remind us that friendship is one of our core strengths. During 2026-27 I know we will all continue to support each other as women, friends and Soroptimists whilst we expand our work in the wider community.On behalf of my Co Presidents Fiona Collett and Jennie Cracknell, thank you for all you have done.
In our special Jubilee Year, it is a privilege for me to continue to lead SI Woking & District, along with my co-Presidents, Anne Ansell and Carolyn Yoong.
