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A place for all women

Thriving across Scotland

At SWI, our members are what make us special. Your energy, ideas, and enthusiasm inspire everything we do. Whether you’re looking to make friends, learn new skills, or give back to your community, we’re here to support you. 

We want being part of SWI to be easy, fun, and rewarding. We give you the tools and support to thrive whether you are trying new activities, leading events, or joining projects.

If you’re seeking personal development, community involvement, or a chance to make a lasting impact, the SWI offers a wealth of benefits. As it continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to empowering women, preserving Scottish culture, and fostering vibrant rural communities, ensuring its relevance and legacy for years to come.

Work for us

Work for us Opportunities Join the team at SWI The Scottish Women’s Institutes (SWI) is a vital network of women across Scotland, empowering communities and celebrating women’s skills, creativity, and…

Member FAQs

Member FAQs How can we help Membership How do I become a member? Becoming a member is a quick and easy process! Simply fill in your details online and complete payment, and you’ll be all set. We’ll notify your local…

Fundraising achievements

The SWI has been a cornerstone of Scotland’s rural communities for more than a century. Funders are drawn to SWI’s proven track record of effective community engagement, skill development, and cultural preservation.

Membership benefits

As Scotland’s largest women’s organisation, Scottish Women’s Institutes offers a wealth of tangible and intangible benefits.

Competition results

Competition results Winners 2026 Competitions Members’ Gathering 2026 Outstanding Member of the Year – Alice Meston, Catterline SWI Vaughan Nash Winner – Craigie SWI Nancy MacMillan Trophy – Irene Sloan…

Book a meeting room

Book a meeting room For members Looking for a space to meet? The meeting room at the SWI Central Office in Edinburgh is a welcoming space for members who want…

Start a group

Scottish Women’s Institutes offer a fantastic way for women to connect, learn, and contribute to their communities.

Support for Institutes

Joining Scottish Women’s Institutes offers a wealth of benefits to members.

Our story & legacy

Scottish Women’s Institutes (the SWI) was founded in 1917 with a clear mission: to empower women, celebrate Scottish culture, and build strong local communities.

Events

A world of workshops, get-togethers, competitions, and flagship events…

 
A photo of a women sorting through Archival materials, behind her there are boxes and scrolls of paper on a shelf.

A home for our heritage

Our collection and archive charts the story of women in Scotland since the days of suffrage to today, and it’s a unique window on the changing role of women’ in the country.

We are striving to create a dynamic hub where stories of Scotland’s women come to life, from heritage crafts through to contemporary, and contributions that helped shape rural communities.

Our ambition is to create a Visitor Learning Center which showcases women’s contributions through archives, workshops, and more.

Become a member

Join a vibrant community where you can connect with like-minded women, learn new skills and socialise. Many members say their life has been enhanced with lifelong learning, fun, and the friendships they have made along the way.

A photo of two women holding hand woven baskets