WOMEN'S INSTITUTES - WEST KENT FEDERATION

General information

West Kent is one of the larger federations sharing its borders with East Kent, East Sussex, Surrey and London. West Kent County Federation was formed with 9 WIs in 1918 and today there are 180 WIs in towns and villages and nearly 7000 members.

Each WI has a monthly meeting and some have other regular activities such as craft, book or gardening clubs. Some members belong to more than one WI. Each WI is different and anyone interested in joining would be welcome to visit more than one WI in the area before joining.

Our federation is unique in that it operates a district system with 6 or more neighbouring institutes forming a district, under the guidance of a district secretary and treasurer. The districts are an important link between the institutes and the federation. There may be insufficient numbers in some WIs to organise some activities or outings that could be viable as a District event. These occasions give members the opportunity to socialise with other WIs in the area.

The federation sub committees for Art and Craft, Home Economics, Performing Arts, Sports and Leisure, Public Affairs and International and Special Events, organise a variety of events throughout the year that aim to cover all interests.

Our WI Advisers are constantly following up enquiries from ladies wanting to join a local WI or thinking of opening a WI in their area, so whatever your age or interests, West Kent has something to offer you, please contact us to find out more.