The women and girls’ social sector is a powerhouse of change. From local community groups to national healthcare providers, these organisations empower, protect, and uplift women. Yet, despite their critical role, they are facing unprecedented challenges.

Demand for services is soaring and resources are thinly stretched. Over half highlight funding as their top concern, and nearly half fear they won’t be able to meet growing demand. The struggle isn’t spread evenly, either. Black and minoritised women and girls’ charities and community interest companies face disproportionate financial strain, with many already operating on limited resources.

This is a systemic challenge with real-world consequences. If we fail to support this sector, we risk undoing decades of progress in women’s safety, health, and empowerment. However, with the right investment and recognition, this sector has the power to drive transformative change. And strengthening these organisations will also play an important role in the government’s goal of halving violence against women and girls within the next decade.

Speakers will reflect on the strength of the women and girls’ social sector, how we can unlock its full potential, and the positive impact this could have on women and girls at every stage of life.

This event will launch a new report – Underfunded, under resourced and under the radar: the state of the women and girls’ social sector, which was written by PBE and was commissioned by Rosa Fund.

Chair: Rubina Ahmed, Director of Research, Policy and Services, Blood Cancer UK

Panelists will include:

• Beth Kitson, Research and Policy Analyst, Pro Bono Economics
• Lola Olaore, Founder, bloss.m
• Cecily Mwaniki, Founder and CEO, Utulivu Women’s Group
• Rebecca Gill, Chief Executive, Rosa
• Sam Smethers, Chief Executive, Surviving Economic Abuse