Welcome to the Northumberland Federation
– a thriving and vibrant Federation
Whether you are a member, thinking of joining us or just visiting the region, I would like to welcome you to Northumberland.
Northumberland is one of the least known and most unspoilt regions in England. It contains the Cheviot Hills reaching to the Scottish Borders, some 50 miles of coastline of ‘outstanding natural beauty’ and, of course, Hadrian’s Wall, Holy Island and the Farnes.
Donate
As a charity, we do our best, fundraising via member fees, events, and other activities, but we are able to do so much more for our members and the wider community through your generosity, thank you!
The Northumberland Federation of Women’s Institutes (WI) was formed in 1918 to revitalise rural communities and encourage women to become more involved in producing food during the First World War.
Since then the organisation’s aims have broadened and the WI is now the largest voluntary women’s organisation in the UK.
The Northumberland Federation of WIs celebrated its centenary in 2018.
The WI plays a unique role in providing women with educational opportunities and the chance to build new skills, to take part in a wide variety of activities and to campaign on issues that matter to them and their communities.
The WI is based on the ideals of fellowship, truth, tolerance and justice. The organisation is non-sectarian and non-party political. WIs are charitable and everything they do must be consistent with that special legal status.
Members and counting
We now have 95 WIs around the Federation with membership numbers ranging from 9 to 90.
Latest News
Treasurer’s update – Nov 2025
Firstly, THE BANKING ISSUE. From your many phone calls to the office we are very aware of the concerns of our WI’s re Lloyd’s closing Treasurers’ Account for charities. There is nothing we can do for individual WIs. At Federation we are in the same situation and have...
Chat from the Chair – November 2025
Hello ladies, and another month has flown by with lots to tell you about and more to look forward to. Since the last Newsletter life has been pretty hectic for WI Advisers and of course the nights are drawing in so please spare them all a thought if they have paid you...
Treasurer’s update – Oct 2025
The Federation’s Financial Statement for 2024-2025 is now with your Secretary and available for you to read. In my remarks I have explained the reason for moving from last year’s small profit to a deficit this year. Our accountant is happy with this and our reserves...
Chat from the Chair – Oct 2025
Hello ladies, here we are with schools all back for a new year and any WIs that didn’t meet in August also back and ready to enjoy all there is on offer in the coming months. I am writing this message earlier than usual as we are changing our posting out to WIs. This...
Wedding Gown Exhibition – CANCELLED.
Please Note, unfortunately the Exhibition of Wedding Gowns which was due to take place at Cresswell House in September has been cancelled.
Treasurer’s update – Sept 2025
Nothing specific to report this month, many WIs have been enjoying a bit of a summer break. Subscriptions & Fees - mostly all up to date, but could you please remind your MCS reps to ensure that they check/tick the relevant box under ‘Membership Details - 2025...
Upcoming Events
Our Next Event
We run events at Cresswell House, our Federation office in Seaton Burn as well as around the Federation.
From walking netball, to sugar-craft, join us for a talk on Claude Monet, or support the campaign to reduce plastic in our seas.
Each of our sub-committees run a variety of events which you can view by clicking one of the links below.
Alternatively you can view our events calendar here
Christmas Celebrations
We are returning once again to Newcastle Cathedral to enjoy some wonderful readings and The Salvatio...
December 4 @ 1:45 pm - 3:00 pm
