History
For over a century, the WI has been a powerful force for women, a movement born out of resilience, unity, and the drive to make a difference.
Founded in 1915 during the First World War, the Women’s Institute began with a simple but bold mission: to strengthen rural communities, empower women to take an active role in food production, and give them a platform to be heard. It wasn’t just about survival, it was about creating real, lasting change.
That spirit still lives on.
Today, the WI is the largest women’s organisation in the UK. It’s a trusted space where women of all backgrounds come together to share stories, learn from each other, and shape the communities we live in.
Belper WI is proud to be part of that legacy. Founded on 22 October 1970, we’ve been bringing women in our town together for over 50 years. As part of the Derbyshire Federation, we stand alongside over 4,000 women across 148 groups, each one continuing the mission started generations ago: to connect, to grow, and to lead with purpose.
Join us and be part of the story.
Meet WI Wyn
Wyn Edwards was a long-standing and much-loved member of our group. Wyn’s life was full of warmth, wisdom and spirit and her legacy lives on with us today.
In August 2015, Wyn celebrated her 100th birthday right here at a Belper WI meeting. It was a momentous occasion, even BBC Radio Derby came along to capture the celebrations. Just days later, on 19th August, Wyn co-presented a live show on the same station, sharing stories from her century-long life and leaving listeners inspired by her strength, humour and clarity.
Wyn passed away in July 2017 at the age of 102, a shining example of resilience, community, and the values the WI holds dear.
Our Mascot, WI Wyn, now stands as a symbol of everything Wyn embodied: friendship, courage, and the joy of living life fully. She reminds us that every woman’s story matters and that our community is built on the remarkable women who shape it.
Below are some photos of our mascot WI Wyn, firstly on her way to a WI meeting carrying her Derbyshire Link magazine, then in the garden relaxing and taking time to smell the roses, something we all should do from time to time.
