WHM's Annual Event 2025 - Stronger Together

On October 8th, Women's Health Matters held its annual celebration event, bringing together women, staff, volunteers and trustees to reflect on the past year and celebrate the power of community. This year's theme, 'Stronger Together,' captured the spirit of the day perfectly, as women came together to share stories, creativity, and connection.

From the moment the doors opened, the room was filled with warmth, colour, and energy. Laughter and conversation filled the air, creating a sense of ease and togetherness that carried through the day.

Throughout the day, women took part in a creative card-making activity, decorating beautiful cards with positive and encouraging messages; words of strength, hope, and support for another woman to discover.

The finished cards were collected in a basket, and at the end of the event, everyone was invited to take one home. This simple act of exchange symbolised how, within Women's Health Matters, kindness and encouragement always flow.

Alongside this, women were invited to reflect on what togetherness meant to them through art. Each woman created a small tile that represented her idea of community. From drawings to affirmations, no two pieces were the same, yet they carried a message of hope, resilience, and community. These individual pieces were later joined together to form a larger community artwork, now proudly displayed in our space.

The final piece is striking not only in colour, but in its meaning. Every tile tells a story, some quiet, some bold, all deeply personal. Together they form a mosaic of shared experiences, resilience and hope. The process of creating the artwork was just as powerful as the result. Women sat side by side, talking, reflecting, and supporting one another as they worked. It was a moment of collective creativity, where each contribution added to something bigger than itself.

We heard from several people throughout the day, including our CEO, Rachel, who shared highlights from the past year, including the number of women we have supported, the breadth of services delivered, and the impact of WHM's work across the community. Her words offered a moment to pause and recognise the scale and significance of what has been achieved, while also looking ahead with hope and determination. Rachel spoke of WHM's continued commitment to reaching more women, adapting to needs, and building on the strength of the community we have nurtured together.

This was followed by a heartfelt farewell speech from Alison, our Chair of Trustees, who stepped down in March after an incredible 18 years of dedicated service. Alison reflected on her journey with WHM, sharing memories of the organisation's growth, the challenges overcome, and the deep sense of community that has always been at its heart. Her speech focused on the enduring strength found in women supporting women, a theme that has shaped WHM's work throughout the years. Her words were met with warm applause, deep appreciation, and a few tears from those who have worked closely with her over the years. It was a touching tribute to her leadership, compassion, and unwavering belief in the power of WHM. We wish Alison a fond farewell and thank her for the legacy she leaves behind, one rooted in care, strength, and solidarity.

The final speeches came from women who accessed WHM's services, sharing personal reflections on how the organisation had supported them through difficult times. These moments were deeply moving, honest, brave, and full of hope. Women spoke about rebuilding confidence, finding safety, and discovering a sense of belonging. Their voices reminded us all of why WHM exists, and why Stronger Together is more than just a theme, it's a truth we live every day.

The day ended on a high note with a performance by Sister Songbirds and women who took part in our singing workshop, with songs that echoed the themes of strength and unity that ran throughout the day. Their music brought the room together in a shared moment of joy and celebration. It was a beautiful way to close the day, reminding us all of the power of coming together.

As we move forward, the Stronger Together artwork will remain a lasting symbol of what WHM stands for: a place where women support each other, grow together, and create something powerful from their individual journeys. It will hang in our space, not just as a piece of art, but as a reminder of the connection made, the stories shared, and the strength that emerges when women come together in community.