Become a member
Recharge your life
Join the SWI today!
Becoming a member of the Scottish Women’s Institutes is about more than events and activities — it’s about learning, friendship, fun, and being part of something special.
A year’s membership costs £33, this gives you access to a whole host of benefits and allows you to attend any Institute in Scotland.
National Benefits
- Join in amazing events – from the SWI Summer School and Study Tour to the Members’ Gathering and national competitions.
- Learn new skills online – enjoy free online events, a library of YouTube “how-to” videos, and even scholarship opportunities.
- Use the Membership Toolkit – handy templates and ideas to help promote your Institute and celebrate members’ achievements.
- Enjoy exclusive discounts – great savings and special offers just for members.
- Stay connected – get our monthly members’ e-newsletter and quarterly Heritage Project updates.
Personal Benefits
- Be part of your local Institute – meet regularly with friendly faces in your community to learn, laugh and share experiences.
- Make lifelong friends – connect with women of all ages and backgrounds who share your interests.
- Get involved locally – support community events, fundraisers, and local causes.
- Grow your confidence – try something new, develop your skills, and discover hidden talents.
- Feel part of something bigger – join a nationwide network of women who inspire and support each other.
Becoming a member is easy — and it’s one of the best decisions you’ll make! Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, make friends, or give back to your community, there’s a place for you at the SWI.
Local Institute Fees
In addition to your main membership, Institutes may charge a monthly meeting fee. These fees are set by each Institute and help cover the costs of running meetings and local activities.
As every Institute is different, fees can vary from one location to another. Some Institutes may also run fundraising activities from time to time to support their institute.
We recommend checking directly with your local Institute for the most up-to-date information on fees and fundraising.
Sign up here
Start your journey
SWI membership
This membership gives you access to all benefits and everything the SWI has to offer in your area, nationally and online.
£33 per year
Gift membership
For the special woman in your life – the gift of a whole year’s access to SWI’s in-person and online activities, events, and all member benefits. It’s the gift of friendship, fun and lifelong learning.
£33 per year
Any questions?
You can join online or at your local Institute, it’s up to you.
Yes, you can go along as a guest. All women are welcome! There may be a small admission charge of a few pounds which covers teas and coffees etc, so take a little bit of cash with you. You can even try a few before you decide which suits you best.
No. All women over the age of 16 can be members – and there’s no upper age limit! Under-16s can join, too, as junior members they have a reduced membership rate of just £10 per year.
There are so many ways to get involved – as stewards at national events, as volunteer archivists for the SWI Heritage Project, as demonstrators, tutors and judges across the country, or as part of the Board of Trustees and national committees which represent members. Find out more.
14‑Day Cooling‑Off Period
If you purchase membership online, you have the right to cancel within 14 days of signing up for any reason. This right is provided under UK consumer law for distance purchases. If you cancel within this time, we will refund your full membership fee.
How to Cancel
To request a refund within the 14‑day period, please contact us in writing at membership@theswi.org.uk
Refund Processing
If your cancellation is received within 14 days, your refund will be issued to the original payment method. Refunds are processed through our secure payment platform and accounting system, and may take a few working days to appear in your account.
After 14 Days
Cancellations made after the 14‑day cooling‑off period are not eligible for a refund. Your membership will remain active until the end of the membership year unless you choose not to renew.
Membership Purchased Through a Third Party
If your membership was purchased through a federation or local group rather than through our website, refund requests must be directed to the organisation that processed your payment.
You’ll find everything in your area on our institute finder. You can search by Institute name or your own address. If you don’t see any groups close to you, why not start your own group?
Yes, we’d love to hear from you if you want to set up a group. Our membership team can support you and team you up with members in your region who can offer a helping hand. Email our membership team.
No! Lots of members just enjoy the friendships they make and the fun they have. We have lots of skilled members, of course, and some of their talents may rub off on you!
Each Institute is different, so it’s best to check the institute finder, but generally they meet once a month. SWI’s membership team can help if need be. Email our membership team.
