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A place for all women

Thriving across Scotland

A black and white photo of a group of women taken outside in a garden.

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…

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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.

Members’ Gathering 2026 – Meet Our Speakers

Meet Our Speakers Day 1 – Friday 11 Sept Stuart Johnstone, Editor of the People’s Friend Magazine Friday 11th Sept 10:15 – 11:15 Originally from southwest Scotland, Stuart moved to…

Members’ Gathering 2026 – Programme

Event Programme Day 1 – Friday 11th September 09:00 – 10:00 | Registration & Refreshments Doors open for registration. Collect your pass, enjoy tea and coffee, and take time to catch…

Members’ Gathering 2026 – Accommodation & travel

Accommodation & travel Visit Dundee The perfect place to stay Dundee is one of Scotland’s most exciting and creative cities, blending a rich industrial heritage with a forward-thinking cultural scene.…

Members’ Gathering 2026 – National Raffle

National Raffle Prizes to be won Raffle Tickets – £1 each or £5 for a book.  The Central Office have sent books of raffle tickets to all Federations for distribution…

Members’ Gathering 2026 – Workshops & Oot an’ aboots

Workshops & Oot an’ aboots Workshops & Oot an’ aboots will run on both day 1 and day 2, please remember to prebook when you make your booking. Oor Wullie…

Members’ Gathering 2026 – Competitions & Exhibitions

Competitions & Exhibitions Get Creative What’s on offer Vaughan Nash Exhibition The Vaughan Nash is a national handcraft competition. It celebrates creativity, skill, and presentation in both traditional and modern…

 
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