Introduction
Women in Wales is a registered charity that raises funds for organisations and projects supporting children and families across Wales. Its principal fundraising activity is the annual Women in Wales Charity Luncheon.
History and Background
Women in Wales began its annual charity luncheon in 1994. Over more than 30 years, the event has brought together business professionals, charity representatives, volunteers, celebrities and supporters to raise money for Welsh children’s projects.
The organisation is registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales under charity number 1164047. Since its inception, it has raised more than £1 million for charitable causes.
Mission and Purpose
The charity’s main purpose is to improve the lives of children and families in Wales by funding projects that address health, disability, poverty, education, emotional well-being and social disadvantage.
Its objectives include:
- Supporting children’s charities operating in Wales
- Funding practical projects with identifiable benefits
- Assisting children with disabilities or life-limiting conditions
- Supporting young carers and vulnerable families
- Promoting children’s safety and emotional well-being
- Encouraging businesses and individuals to support Welsh charities
Governance and Structure
Women in Wales is governed by a Board of Trustees composed of professional women. The trustees oversee the charity’s finances, fundraising activities, grant selection and compliance.
A voluntary committee works throughout the year to organise the annual luncheon, secure corporate sponsorships, sell advertising and coordinate fundraising activities.
The trustees retain discretion over how donations are distributed. They may fund one charity or divide the available money among several projects.
Funding and Grants
Most of the charity’s income is generated through:
- Tickets and tables for the annual luncheon
- Corporate sponsorship packages
- Advertising in the event programme
- Auctions, raffles and event-based fundraising
- Donations from businesses and individuals
Children’s charities and community organisations can submit grant applications. Trustees evaluate each proposal and select projects that meet the charity’s objectives.
Funding must be used for the specific activities or purchases approved by the trustees. Current application information is available through the charity’s grant applications page.
Major Programs and Initiatives
Annual Charity Luncheon
The Women in Wales Charity Luncheon is the organisation’s flagship fundraising event. It regularly attracts more than 400 attendees and provides opportunities for corporate engagement, networking and charitable giving.
Children’s Project Grants
Grant funding supports practical projects that directly benefit children and families in Wales. Assistance may cover specialist equipment, educational activities, respite programs, accessibility improvements and child-protection initiatives.
Corporate Partnerships
Businesses support the charity through sponsorship, advertising, table bookings and donations. These partnerships help increase the amount available for Welsh children’s organisations.
Impact and Examples of Work Funded
Women in Wales has raised more than £1 million since its first luncheon in 1994. Since relaunching its events after the COVID-19 pandemic, it has donated more than £125,000 to children’s projects in Wales.
Examples of funded work include:
- Tŷ Hafan: Purchasing medical pumps and training nurses caring for children with life-limiting conditions
- North Pembrokeshire and Cardigan Riding for the Disabled: Installing a wheelchair-accessible mounting ramp
- Credu: Providing a respite trip for young carers supporting family members with illnesses or disabilities
- BulliesOut: Delivering anti-bullying workshops for children and young people in Welsh schools
In July 2025, the charity distributed £25,500 among four projects. In 2026, it donated more than £24,000 to two selected charities.
Conclusion
Women in Wales is an established fundraising charity dedicated to supporting children and families throughout Wales. Through its annual luncheon, corporate partnerships and project grants, it converts community generosity into practical assistance for Welsh children’s charities.
Its long-term fundraising record demonstrates the value of women-led philanthropy, business engagement and community collaboration in addressing the needs of vulnerable children and families.
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