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A few years ago, Machen Women’s Institute faced a bleak future, with a dwindling membership threatening the group’s existence.

Now, the group’s membership has surged from just eight to 54 members, and its future is now much brighter – with a busy schedule planned for the year ahead.

Machen Women’s Institute meets once a fortnight on Thursday evenings, focusing on women’s issues and bringing women together.

To mark International Women’s Day earlier this month, they recently welcomed Ursula Hughes, an engagement officer for the charity Cyfannol Women’s Aid, which supports women and children experiencing abuse in the Caerphilly area. Members wore purple to show solidarity, and made donations to the charity.

Upcoming Events 

• Thursday April 9 – Presentation on local homelessness across Caerphilly;

• Saturday May 9 – Trip to the National Botanical Gardens of Wales;

• Thursday May 14 – Laughing yoga session run by Thriving Communities;

• Thursday May 28 – A history of Machen, presented by local historian Liz Phillips;

• Thursday June 11 – Air Ambulance Cymru fundraiser;

• Thursday July 23 – Trip to Machen Bowling Club;

• Thursday October 22 – Q&A session with Machen and Rudry councillors Chris Morgan and Amanda McConnell’

• Thursday November 12 – Reflexology session with reflexologist Nicola Bell.

Alongside these sessions, the institute has several new projects in development. After the summer, they hope to launch a singing group – with the aim of organising a Christmas concert to raise funds for St John’s Parish Church.

Members are also planning to run three craft evenings throughout the year, with dates to be confirmed. 

The Machen Women’s Institute is based at Machen Village Hall and warmly welcomes new members to join their close‑knit community.