Inspiring women – then and now
about us
Witham St Hughs Women’s Institute is part of the nationwide WI movement, a unique voluntary organisation shaped and led by its members. Founded in Britain in 1915 to revitalise rural communities and to encourage women’s involvement in food production during the First World War, the WI has grown into the largest voluntary women’s organisation in the UK. Today, Witham St Hughs WI continues that tradition locally, bringing women together to learn, laugh and make a difference in our community.
At Witham St Hughs WI, members meet regularly to make friends, share experiences, and try new activities through talks, workshops, outings and social events. We offer opportunities for life‑long learning and personal development, as well as the chance to get involved in WI campaigns on issues that matter to women, their families and the wider community. Our WI is a welcoming space for women of all generations to connect, support one another and work together for positive change.
In addition to local membership at Witham St Hughs WI, the WI also offers WI Supporter options as another way to engage with the WI movement without joining a specific Institute. This flexible route is ideal for people who share WI values and want to support its campaigns and educational work, even if they cannot commit to regular meetings at Witham St Hughs WI.
Our Mission
At the heart of everything we do are the values and purpose that define us.
The WI
Vision
To create a world where women come together to learn, share skills and work together to become active citizens, influencing change to improve lives in their local, national and global communities.
We Connect Women
Our movement offers women of all ages and backgrounds a unique chance to come together and share experiences, tackling social isolation and building community cohesion.
We Support Women
We support women to learn, develop new skills and achieve their goals throughout their lives, building confidence and improving physical and mental wellbeing.
We Empower Women
We empower women to use their voices, individually and collectively, to achieve real change on the issues that matter to them.
About Witham St Hughs
Witham St Hughs is a modern, growing village in North Kesteven, roughly halfway between Lincoln and Newark, just off the A46. It was developed on the former RAF Swinderby airfield, transforming a historic military site into a thriving residential community with a mix of family homes, green spaces and local services. The village name reflects both the nearby River Witham and St Hugh, a medieval Bishop of Lincoln closely associated with the city and its cathedral.
Although it is a relatively new settlement, Witham St Hughs has quickly developed a strong sense of identity. Many residents commute to Lincoln, Newark and further afield via the A1 and A46, but choose to live here for the balance of countryside surroundings and modern amenities. The village layout, play areas and open spaces are designed with families in mind, helping to create a friendly, safe environment where people know their neighbours.
Local amenities and facilities
The village is well served by everyday amenities. There is a primary academy within the village, making school runs convenient for local families, as well as a small parade of shops offering essentials such as a convenience store, food outlets and other local services. Green spaces, play parks and walking routes provide places for children to play and for residents to enjoy the outdoors close to home.
Community facilities, such as the village hall and school, host a range of activities, meetings and social events throughout the year. These spaces are used by local groups, including Witham St Hughs Women’s Institute, sports and fitness classes, children’s activities and seasonal celebrations. Together they help ensure that village life is not just about housing, but about people coming together.
Community life
Community spirit is one of Witham St Hughs’ greatest strengths. Residents have set up and support a variety of clubs and groups, from sports and youth activities to hobby and interest groups for adults. Events such as fairs, fundraisers and celebrations bring the village together and offer opportunities for new residents to get involved and make friends.
Witham St Hughs Women’s Institute plays an active role in this community landscape. As part of the wider WI movement, it offers local women the chance to meet regularly, learn new skills, hear from visiting speakers and contribute to both village life and national WI campaigns. For many members, it is a welcoming way to feel part of the village, whether they are long‑standing residents or have only recently moved to the area.
A village that keeps growing
As a relatively young village, Witham St Hughs continues to evolve. New homes, families and businesses bring fresh energy and ideas, while existing residents work hard to keep the friendly, supportive atmosphere that has developed over the past few decades. Good transport links, local facilities and active community groups help to make Witham St Hughs an attractive place to live for people at different stages of life.
For Witham St Hughs WI, this growing village offers plenty of opportunities: to welcome new members, to support local initiatives and to be part of shaping village life as it develops. Whether you have lived here for years or have only just arrived, there is space to get involved and feel at home in Witham St Hughs.
