Foundation Statement.

The Women’s Action Network is dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of women in all their diversity throughout UK society. We prioritise the issues that define modern equality: achieving equal pay for equal work, securing reproductive justice and bodily autonomy, and ending all forms of gender-based violence. We advocate for health equality – including the national establishment of Women’s Health Hubs – and promote economic empowerment through access to education, fair employment, and financial independence.

We actively champion meaningful inclusion for every woman, regardless of age, class, disability, neurodiversity, race, religion, sexuality, or gender identity. Our solidarity is grounded in shared struggles and a collective commitment to dismantling patriarchy. We recognise and value unpaid care work as a cornerstone of society and remain united by empathy, mutual respect, and a bold vision for progress.

We stand firmly against divisive culture wars and attacks on minorities, rejecting polarisation, hate, and exclusion in favour of unity, inclusion, justice, equity, and compassion for all members of our diverse communities.

Please Note: Women’s Action Network Portsmouth is politically independent. We work with all parties for the advancement of women and are currently led by Steph Richards, who formed the original group calling for the closure of the Ripper & Co restaurant and bar.