We were saddened to hear of the passing of our previous Chairwoman, Chris Easton, at the end of last month.

Chris was the Chair of Nottingham Women’s Centre for several years and gave invaluable support and guidance to the Centre’s trustees, staff and volunteers. Her strength and determination helped to lead the organisation through some difficult times to where we are now – a time of new beginnings.

She stepped down from the Chair earlier this year and passed away suddenly, following a long illness, on Saturday 21st April.

She will be dearly missed by us all.

Nicolle Ndiweni (our past Vodafone world of Difference Intern) is hosting a charity event to help raise the profile of Nottingham Women’s Centre and the work that we do in our community.

Here is what she has to say about why she is supporting Nottingham Women’s Centre in this way: “Smaller organisations are easily overlooked but this does not make them any less important or effective for those that need and use them. I am trying to host a celebration of womanhood, despite what we go through as individuals we overcome and with the support of organisations such as NWC a lot of women have overcome and gone on to achieve great things so why not celebrate with a touch of glamour.”

Want a night of inspiration and empowerment or just to meet new friends? Then this event is for you..

This event will be a ticket sale event where people purchase a ticket on entry for £5.00 and all proceeds go to Nottingham Women’s Centre. There will be a showcase of talented singers and musicians, actors, dancers, fashion designers, poets, motivational speakers and a comedian.

This event is open to ALL…So ladies get your dresses out and men come suited and booted.

We’ve put together a new programme of courses for the new term, starting in April. Courses include:

• Maths for life and work
• Parenting skills
• Building self confidence and self esteem
• Anger management

…plus many more. Our courses are generally free of charge We also run various workshops, support groups and wellbeing sessions. To find out more, please download our Course Booklet.

We’re holding an information day on Tuesday 17th April so that you can find out more about the courses in the booklet and to enrol – just drop in anytime from 9.30am – 3.30pm. Alternatively you can pop in anytime that we’re open for more information and to enrol. Please bring proof of benefits and a £5 deposit (which will be refunded on completion of the course).

Our pop-up CHANGES Cafe (women-only) runs every Tuesday from 11am till 2pm. Come along for savouries, salads, delicious cakes and soups, and catch up with friends at the same time.

Women-only Creative Writing Group:

There is no experience necessary, and be able to receive honest but constructive criticism. We can suggest exercises to get you started, look at any writing you’ve done and consider publishing and other outlets for your work.

Start Date:  Every Thursday

Time & Course Duration:  10:00am – 12:00pm, Term Time only.

Cost: Free

Are you a small women’s group in need of some life support or just looking to start one? We know that these are tough times for many women groups but being small should not reduce your group’s chance of success. If you are small group, then please get in touch with Mel or Olumide on 01159411475 to discuss your needs. We can offer a supportive environment space, a whole range of support and bag loads of enthusiasm.

Here is our latest newsletter.. Enjoy!Spring_2012_Newsletter_Email_version

The Hilariously Funny and  Award Winning Play,  “Vagina Monologues” is showing here at the centre, performed by the University of Nottingham Women’s Network, it promises to be a fantastic experience. This event is being organised by the University of Nottingham Women’s Network and all proceeds will go to Nottingham Women’s Centre and V-Day!

The award-winning play is based on V-Day Founder/playwright Eve Ensler’s interviews with more than 200 women. With humor and grace the piece celebrates women’s sexuality and strength. Through this play and the liberation of this one word, countless women throughout the world have taken control of their bodies and their lives. For more than twelve years, The Vagina Monologues has given voice to experiences and feelings not previously exposed in public.

Date:  Thursday 1st March 2012 (Female Audience Only)

Time: 7pm (Refreshments served from  6pm)

Venue: Nottingham Women’s Centre

Tickets: £3.50 (students), £4.50 (everyone else)

Tickets can be purchased in advance at the centre or call 0115 941 1475.

And on:

Friday, 2nd March 2012 (Everyone welcome)

Time: 7pm (Doors open from 6.30pm)

Venue: The Den, University of Nottingham

Tickets: £3.50 (students), £4.50 (everyone else)

Tickets can be purchased in advance at the SU Box Office  or on the door.

See you there!!

Here at Nottingham Women’s Centre, International Women’s Day (IWD) is a very important and inspiring day for us as well as every woman all over the world. It is a global day that celebrates economic, political and social achievements of women around the world. Since 1971, Nottingham Women’s Centre has been marking the day with a range of engaging activities and events to celebrate women. This year our theme is “Strong Women, Healthy Minds”, in the spirit of the Olympics- London 2012. It will be held at Nottingham Women’s Centre, 30 Chaucer Street, NG1 5LP between 12noon – 4pm. Some of the free events on offer are: head massage sessions, jewellery and crafts exhibitions, music, tombola, healthy food, and lots more. This part of the event is FREE. There is also an after-party at 6.30pm. Tickets for the after party is £3 (in advance)  £5 on the night. There really is something for everyone!

More details in the flyer: IWD Fyler2012