
The WI was founded in 1915, to give women a voice and to be a force for good in the community. 110 years later, the WI is still thriving, with over 200,000 members. The WI vision is to empower, connect and support women. The WI is also a campaigning organisation and has a new campaign each year, chosen democratically by its members. Membership is open to women aged 18 or over (there is no upper age limit).

In 2025 we are celebrating 110 years of the WI, and you can buy an Emma Bridgewater WI mug here
The organisation structure is in three levels. Minchinhampton WI is a WI branch which belongs to the Gloucestershire Federation.
