International Women’s Day – 8 March
For Healthwatch Greenwich, this day is an opportunity to champion women’s voices in health and social care and highlight the importance of equitable access to services for women and girls across our borough.
International Women’s Day has been observed for more than a century, with the first official celebration taking place in 1911. Today, it is marked by millions of people around the world as a day of reflection, empowerment and collective action. IWD celebrates women’s contributions across every sphere of life—from community leadership to scientific discovery—and shines a light on areas where gender inequality persists.
The aims of International Women’s Day include celebrating women’s achievements, raising awareness about persistent inequalities, mobilising action for gender parity, and encouraging solidarity among all genders. These aims resonate strongly with the work we do at Healthwatch Greenwich to ensure all women have a voice in shaping local health and care services.
In 2026, IWD marks 115 years of global advocacy for women’s rights, with campaigns emphasising the importance of equal access to justice, dismantling discriminatory laws and addressing harmful social norms that limit women’s opportunities worldwide. The day continues to act as a rallying point for global movements calling for better representation, equal pay, safety, and improved legal protections for women and girls.
For communities like Greenwich, IWD provides a moment to recognise the diverse experiences of women locally—including those facing health inequalities, barriers to care, and discrimination. It is a reminder that creating a fairer society starts with listening to women’s experiences and ensuring their needs shape our health and care system.
This International Women’s Day, Healthwatch Greenwich encourages residents to celebrate the women who inspire them, learn more about gender equality issues, and support actions that help build safer, healthier and more equitable communities. Whether through local events, conversations, or simple acts of solidarity, every contribution helps push us towards a future where women everywhere can thrive.
Learn More Here
