Women’s Action Network Dorset (WAND) is an organisation for women of all ages living, working or training in Dorset.
WAND is network that unites women and enables them to collaborate over common issues through their collective strengths and actions; striving to reach those most in need and reducing the gaps in inequality.
So that we all rise – together.
We listen and we hear Women’s stories. We learn from their experiences, and we offer allyship to the issues that affect them.
We honour Women by sharing their stories, by shining spotlights on their issues and by including all of them in our conversations.
We create networks and spaces for Women to rise – to heal if they need to, to grow if they want to and to connect in ways that benefit everyone.
We will do this together using our collective strengths and for the benefit of all.
History
WAND formed in 2006 after participants at a women’s event expressed a need for a networking, campaigning and social group for women. A formal constitution was written and adopted at the first AGM in 2010.
In its early years, WAND received support from West Dorset District Council and had strong links with Dorset Police through its founder members.
WAND’s role in the community has come to include running events, campaigning, fundraising for women’s causes and providing information on women’s health and domestic abuse.
WAND is launching a New Strategy in 2022 which sets out or intentions for the next 5 years.
Previous activities
We are known in Dorset for organising events such as the popular Dorset Women’s Day and Reclaim the Night. Other past events have included the No Excuse for Abuse conference, a Women’s Manifesto hustings ahead of the 2015 general election, and numerous social events such as craft sessions and frock markets.
