“As your NFWI Chair, and fellow WI member, I wanted to reach out today to offer every one of you my support and solidarity at this incredibly challenging moment in the UK. The Women’s Institute – your WI – has always, fearlessly stood up for the equality of all members of our collective society; and each of you reinforces these key values of community and friendship in all you do, every day.

The WI community reaches out far and wide, warmly welcoming every culture, colour, and nationality; from our conversation cafes providing friendship to refugees and migrant women, to fundraising for causes that support disenfranchised communities, and the very makeup of our membership.

We resolutely reject the violence – often disproportionately affecting women and girls – happening across towns and cities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland right now. And we stand beside you, and for you, as allies against far right groups which seek to divide us.

I wish that you stay safe, look out for one another, and provide support and love to your neighbours who may be feeling especially anxious and afraid. The NFWI, your federations and your fellow members are all here to support you, and so we hope those of you directly impacted by the current issues can draw strength and fellowship from the WI sisterhood.”