Women 2009

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MARCH 2009

INTERNATIONALWOMENSMONTH.COM

60 Years of Women in

Enterprising Women Making Economic Sense

GIRLS ALLOWED

Building a Great Future

the Armed Forces

Comedy: Stand-up with Shazia

The Rock MICHELLE OBAMA

Behind the Power

EVENTS LISTnaINl WGomSen’s

Internatio Month Events Nationwide

ALSO

THE BEAUTIFUL GAME Embracing Global Looks

lcbt london college of beauty therapy

Superb Teaching and Training Resources NVQ Levels 1-3 in 18 months Short Courses in Beauty and Holistic Therapies BTEC Diploma in Retail Beauty Consultancy 14-18 Schools Programme and Diploma Open Days Throughout The Year Business Support for Salon Managers

London College of Beauty Therapy 47 Great Marlborough Street London W1F 7JP www.lcbt.co.uk Course Hotline:

020 7208 1300 info@lcbt.co.uk

Salon Reception: 020 7208 1302 salon@lcbt.co.uk

The luxurious LCBT beauty salon is located in the heart of London’s West End, near Oxford Circus. For a full list of treatments visit www.lcbt.co.uk

Welcome to *INTERNATIONAL

WOMEN’S MONTH

2009

Being true to ourselves

Lynne Franks

O Nuturing and guiding: Lynne Franks

and take off the masks that they feel society requires. n 8th March 1908, When women are true to themselves they have 15,000 female garment a different perspective of success than men, with workers took to the streets emphasis on inclusion, co-operation and community. of New York to claim their right for At SEED we have incorporated these feminine better working conditions and equal pay. values into our business start-up programmes, During International Women’s Month, SEED coaching training, community circles and women all over the world will be celebrating the transformational guidance and support work which changes that have taken place to improve women’s we deliver to women from a wide range of situations, lives whilst taking the opportunity of drawing including women offenders to corporate drop-outs. attention to the still present major problems SEED – Women regarding sex Connecting At the discrimination, “I have been working with women Roots – believes that domestic violence and women can support women’s rights. all over the world for the last each other and this I have been twenty years, guiding and nurturing International Women’s working with women Month will be all over the world for them through my SEED Women’s celebrating with women the last twenty years, Network, so they can feel safe all over the world the guiding and nurturing next hundred years them through my to create a professional as well of positive change for SEED Women’s as personal life that reflects their women in society.

Network, so they can feminine values, instead of trying to feel safe to create a professional as well Visit us to learn how live life as a surrogate man.” as personal life that to join a SEED Circle, reflects their feminine become a SEED Coach values, instead of trying to live life as a surrogate or participate in our start-up business programmes on man. www.seednetwork.com and see SEED Community Site I have seen women from all backgrounds come on www.seednetworkingforwomen.com. to my workshops and literally transform before my Lynne Franks, author and businesswoman, is the eyes when they are able to share their inner feelings founder of SEED.

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PROFILE: London College of Beauty Therapy

lcbt london college of beauty therapy

Careers and Pampering at West End College London College of Beauty Therapy (LCBT), the UK’s leading beauty training college, also houses one of the capital’s best-kept beauty secrets: a luxurious beauty salon located in the heart of the West End where treatments cost on average 45% below prices charged elsewhere. Short courses covering a wide range of beauty treatments, makeup and holistic therapies are also held at the college for the general public and other salon staff.

Superb Teaching and Training Resources NVQ Levels 1-3 in 18 months Short Courses in Beauty and Holistic Thera BTEC Diploma in Retail Beauty Consultanc 14-18 Schools Programme and Diploma Open Days Throughout The Year Business Support for Salon Managers

Indulge yourself at London’s secret beauty salon – or take a short course

Housed in a beautiful listed building located a few yards from Liberty department store in Great Marlborough Street, W1, the LCBT salon offers a wide range of beauty treatments at very affordable prices. It has 10 nail stations, 6 pedicure stations and 25 treatment cubicles. Expert therapists manage the salon while the trainee therapists who perform the treatments have been taught the very latest beauty techniques and have reached the standard required to provide professional treatments. In a few months, salons all over the country will employ many of these students.

LCBT also offers its expert services to the public, as well as to managers and staff of other salons. Courses range from how to apply makeup to advanced Brazilian waxing.

You love beauty, make it your career

There are over 1100 students currently studying at the award winning LCBT, the country’s Centre of Vocational Excellence for Retail, Beauty and Holistic Care. Located just two minutes from Oxford Circus, everyone at LCBT receives the highest quality training and has access to the latest technology to aid their studies. Students there are motivated to begin their careers in beauty, confident in the knowledge that LCBT offers them the fastest route into work available

anywhere - there are no term breaks and achieving NVQ Levels 1-3 in Beauty Therapy takes just 18 months compared to three years at other colleges. For those worried about the costs of training a massive plus is that all 16-18 year olds, and other students aged 19 and over who qualify, can obtain free tuition at the college.

A great business full of opportunities Despite the current recession the beauty sector remains a great industry for young people and those looking to re-train for a new career. The proliferation of beauty products and treatments and their availability in an ever-growing number of salons, spas and stores on the high street, in shopping malls, airports and leisure centres mean that there are endless career opportunities for enthusiastic and knowledgeable people in a wide range of companies - both in the UK and overseas - all of whom are in desperate need of trained and educated staff. Beauty is less affected by economic downturns than other sectors because no matter what, people and especially women, will always buy products that make them feel and look good. A lipstick or mascara can do this, at a relatively low cost when compared to other luxury goods.

Success results are consistently outstanding at LCBT with retention and achievement rates of over 90%. In addition,

once qualified, above 90% of the students either remain in further education or, as is the case with the majority, are helped by LCBT to find suitable full-time employment.

The luxurious LCBT beauty salon is l near Oxford Circus. For a full lis The college’s beauty courses End, include the BTEC Diploma in Retail Beauty Consultancy for department store, salon and spa based retail beauty consultants. This is a fully funded, work-based qualification that is perfect for every beauty retail professional whether you are a receptionist, hostess, beauty therapist, department store consultant, airline crewmember or chemist sales advisor. It is the first nationally recognized qualification for this specialist sector of beauty consultants; it recognizes the importance of their work, boosts their self-esteem and has a proven uplift on sales and service. In addition, the qualification revolves around a retail event or promotion and has been proven by existing retail partners to bring in additional revenue during these competitive trading times. Participating companies include Fashion Fair, Benefit Cosmetics, Dove Spa, The Sanctuary and Virgin Active.

The ASDAN Life Skills Programme for 14-18 year olds and the New Diploma in Hair and Beauty, which is being introduced for school children by the government in September, will also be available at LCBT. To begin your career in beauty call LCBT now 020 7308 1300 For salon bookings and short course enquiries call 020 7308 1302 For retail diploma enquiries call 020 7208 1340 or contact our Retail Director: dawn.slater@lcbt.co.uk

Open days at the LCBT are held throughout the year. www.lcbt.co.uk

Contents

£3 WHERE SOLD PUBLISHERS Isabel Appio, Ian Thomas & Adam Hayes BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Darren Waite

Specials 8 Wow! – Women on Their Way 10 First Lady Mrs O – Michelle Obama 26 Shazia Mirza Interview 28 Oona King Interview 34 Women of the World

SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE Gurpreet Kundi & Bridget Rodricks LISTINGS EDITOR Holly Wilson SENIOR OFFICE MANAGER Marcia Abrahams DESIGNED BY Art Director: Jon-Paul Daly Designer: John Blanco COVER IMAGE Courtesy of the White House SPECIAL THANKS ABBOTT Pharmaceuticals & Positively Women Sugar Media Ltd Studio 4 Hiltongrove 14 Southgate Road London N1 3LY Tel: 0207 407 7747 Fax: 0207 407 6800 Email: Info@sugarmedia.co.uk FREQUENCY Annual DISTRIBUTION Nationwide www.internationalwomensmonth.com www.sugarmedia.co.uk DISCLAIMER No material in this publication May be used without permission from the publisher. The views expressed in women are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. © Blue Noise Associates Ltd

Please recycle this publication.

Culture 14 C over to Cover – The History of Women’s Magazines 18 W itness to War – Female Artists at the Imperial War Museum 32 T he Beautiful Game

by Anjana Gosai

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Careers 22 Girls Allowed – Women in Construction 30 Computer Says Yes! The World of IT 38 Thinking of going into Teaching?

40 A Positive Force – Liz Owsley, British Association for Women in Policing 44 A Voice for all in Fire and Rescue

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Fostering and Adoption 46 Becoming a Foster Carer 48 What is Adoption?

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Women Listings 49 National Listings 65 Venue Listings 66 Advertisers List 5

PROFILE: Alberto Culver

At Home Salon Care Motions® strengthens and protects the hair & scalp with innovative ingredients found deep within the heart of Africa With more than 18 years of experience, Motions is a long-standing, reliable favorite in salons across America. The line also includes 24 at-home products to suit every fashionista’s trendsetting needs, from elegant to edgy styles.

Exotic marula oil, found within the heart of Africa, is the key ingredient in the new Motions Marula Natural Therapy collection. Infused with a blend of antioxidants, minerals and amino acids, the products in this line deliver much needed nourishment to the scalp and hair, while providing 4 times more strength and 90% less breakage to strands after just one use. These products are due to hit shelves in the UK in April 2009: • Marula Natural Therapy Hair Strengthening Moisturizer – Formula with emollients, proteins and UV protectors keeps hair protected, flexible and shiny. Essential minerals and amino acids help strengthen and minimize breakage.

• Marula Natural Therapy Hair Treatment Balm – Moisturizes hair and scalp while minimizing heat damage with a formula containing marula oil and shea butter. The treatment also helps manage and tame stray, split ends.

• Marula Natural Therapy Hair & Scalp Oil – Revitalizes and adds instant shine via a formula with chamomile and lavender extracts. This nourishing oil is ideal for all types of relaxed, braided or heat-styled hair.

Motions is the professional hair care brand that provides excellence in ethnic beauty.

Motions products are available at leading ethnic beauty stores in the UK.

For more information about Motions At Home Salon Care’s new hair care products featuring Marula Oil, please visit www.motionshair.com.

Is it myth?

Or wisdom passed down from the elders?

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It’s a link to the past. A gift for the present.

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Visit www.MotionsHair.com

SPECIAL

Women on Their Way

Wow!

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Celebrating Women on Their Way

n this new world of work, women do jump through hoops every day to get to where they want to be. They break down barriers and overcome challenges to get to the top in some very difficult circumstances. They keep going when it all gets tough. They often have energy when others give up.They don’t always see their achievements and they don’t always recognise their success. The young women coming up behind them need more role models. This is why we created The WOW Awards; for recognising those women on the move, those who mobilise others and those who create change when it all feels too hard. Those on their way to the top! All together, it’s about celebrating and recognising the energy that women bring into work and their resolve to make a difference.

Some of the Midlands’ most inspiring women have been crowned ‘Women On Their Way’ in the inaugural Women On Their Way Awards, held in February at the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham. The event was attended with 220 guests, filling the room to capacity.

Plans are already afoot for next year when there will be five events in five different regions, capitalising on its success. There were nine winners, showcasing the very best female leaders of the future from across the Midlands. The awards are the brainchild of Jo Cameron, best known for her appearance on BBC’s The Apprentice, and Lisa Ibbotson.

Jo said: “The winners are some of the most inspiring women in the Midlands. The event was uplifting and upbeat providing a real lift to the business community, which we are very happy to have been part of.

Lisa said: “We are delighted that we had such an overwhelming response from the region and we would like to wish our winners all the very best in the coming year. Our event will be bigger and bolder next year and we hope to have a great year building up to it” They also had the well wishes of the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown who commented: ‘The ‘Women on their way’ awards show that women in the West Midlands have the talent, dedication and enthusiasm to help drive the British economy through these difficult economic times and on to a stronger and fairer future.”

And West Midlands Woman, the first female Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith: “As a woman of the West Midlands I am immensely proud to add my words of praise for these extraordinary women.

Their efforts and innovation are a credit to our region and will act as an inspiration to the many that follow”.

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www.womenontheirway.co.uk

Achievers: Women on Their Way winners. Jo Cameron: Ex-Alan Sugar Apprentice, now running a High Performance Academy

‘‘

The winners are some of the most inspiring women in the Midlands. The event was uplifting and upbeat providing a real lift to the business community, which we are very happy to have been part of.”

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You value your time, your friends, your colleagues, your family, your own personal space, your home, your pets, your clean floors, your obsessions, your hobbies, your talent, your training, your moments of genius, your children, your future, your books, your music, your seat on the way to work, your walks, your lie-ins, your quietly sparkling potential, your life when you’re at work and your freedom to choose when you’re not.

Same here.

We have all manner of options that can make your life easier – from part-time working to job sharing to term time roles. And we’ll have opportunities available throughout the year.

Explore them at www.voa.gov.uk/recruitment

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Things About Michelle...

• Her nickname is “Miche” (pronounced “Meesh”).

• Her husband calls her “My Rock”.

• From Princeton, Michelle moved seamlessly to Harvard Law School, and then to a top Chicago law firm, Sidley Austin, where she specialised in intellectual property and entertainment law.

• She was assigned Barack’s mentor when he came to her Chicago Law firm for a summer job.

• Her first impression of Barack wasn’t great; after seeing a photo of him in the law firm directory she decided he had a big nose. He had a rusty car and “cruddy” wardrobe but she told herself: “This brother is not interested in making a dime. I would just have to love him for his values.”

• She hates wearing tights – too “painful.”

• At the Democratic National Convention in 2004, moments before her husband went on stage to give his speech, she said: “Just don’t screw it up, buddy!”

• She is the former associate Dean at the University of Chicago.

• Michelle made Barack promise to quit smoking if he stood for president.

• Michelle makes Barack do the dishes.

• She was on the board of six major organisations, including the prestigious Chicago Council on Global Affairs, the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools and Tree House Foods; and Vice President, Community and External Affairs at the University of Chicago Hospitals.

• Her inauguration dress was designed by Cuban-American designer, Isabel Toledo. Her green gloves were J Crew and her shoes

by Jimmy Choo.

• Her great-great-grandfather, Jim Robinson, was a slave in South Carolina before the Civil War. • Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, and Michelle Obama are the only First Ladies to receive master’s degrees.

Meet the Obamas: The Obama family of the cover of Essence magazine, September 2008

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SPECIAL

Michelle Obama

Mrs O

First Lady

Handling the world stage with confidence, ease and grace, Harvard Law School graduate Michelle Robinson Obama worked in a top US Law firm (Barack was her mentee) and went on to secure several leading roles in public office. She rises at 4.30am to hit the treadmill, skilfully balances being supermom with social campaigner and diplomat, not forgetting carrying off an impeccably classic fashion style. Claire Burge looks at why Michelle Obama is living up to her name as the First Lady.

W

hen people ask Michelle Obama to describe herself, she doesn’t hesitate. First and foremost, she is Malia (10) and Sasha’s (7) mom. As she told a Democratic Convention last year: “I come here as a Mom whose girls are the heart of my heart and the center of my world – they’re the first thing I think about when I wake up in the morning, and the last thing I think about when I go to bed at night. Their future – and all our children’s future – is my stake in this election.”

But before she was a mother – or a wife, lawyer, or public servant – she was Fraser and Marian Robinson’s daughter.

The Robinsons lived in a brick bungalow on the South Side of Chicago.

Michelle’s father, Fraser was a pump operator for the Chicago Water Department, and despite being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at a young age, he hardly ever missed a day of work. Her mother, Marian Shields Robinson, was a secretary at a catalogue store who later stayed home to raise Michelle and her brother, Craig. As Michelle says: “My mother’s love has always been a sustaining

force for our family, and one of my greatest joys is seeing her integrity, her compassion, and her intelligence reflected in my own daughters.”

A product of Chicago public schools, Michelle is an accomplished individual in her own right. She studied sociology and African-American studies at Princeton University and after graduating from Harvard Law School in 1988, she joined the Chicago law firm Sidley & Austin, where she later met the man who would become the love of her life.

Michelle was assigned as Barack’s mentor when they were among very few African Americans at their law firm. They were married in 1992, and in 2007 they began what she calls their “improbable journey” to the White House. “Barack didn’t pledge riches” Michelle explains to Newsweek. “Only a life that would be interesting. On that promise he’s delivered.” She also says of her marriage, which is under the intense media spotlight: “I never worry about things I can’t affect, and with fidelity... that is between Barack and me, and if somebody can come between us, we didn’t have much to begin with.”

After a few years, Michelle decided

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her true calling lay in encouraging people to serve their communities and their neighbours. She served as assistant commissioner of planning and development in Chicago’s City Hall before becoming the founding executive director of the Chicago chapter of Public Allies, an AmeriCorps program that prepares youth for public service.

In 1996, Michelle joined the University of Chicago with a vision of bringing campus and community together. As associate Dean of student services, she developed the university’s first community service program, and under her leadership as vice president of community and external affairs for the University of Chicago Medical Center, volunteerism skyrocketed.

Michelle Obama is still a devoted supporter of the Women’s Treatment Center, West Side of Chicago. The facility is for the treatment and detox of women dealing with substance abuse.

As First Lady, Michelle Obama looks forward to continuing her work on the issues close to her heart — supporting military families and helping working women balance career and family.

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PROFILE: Royal Air Force

PROFILE – Corporal Lauren King In 1999, at the age of 16, I opted to join the Royal Air Force rather than go into further education, although I could have continued my education and then join I decided that joining straight away was the route that I wanted to take.

I completed both my basic military training and my specialised trade training at Royal Air Force Halton in Buckinghamshire.

After which, I was posted to my first job as an allowances clerk at Royal Air Force Neatishead in Norfolk. Here I was responsible for the calculation and processing of all expenses and benefit claims for a whole range of personnel and activities. I’ve always enjoyed working with numbers so this job suited me and ensured a confident start to my Royal Air Force career. In 2001 I volunteered for an exercise in Cornwall where I hoped to build on my field skills that is living under canvass and fending for myself. Fortunately the location of this exercise changed to much sunnier climates and I spent 3 months with the Army in Oman on Exercise Saif Sareea II. This was my first deployment and really was ‘living in the field’. With man made toilets (holes in the ground), solar bags for showers and working out of tents, it took some getting used to! But like most things in the military, it quickly became normal and presented some great experiences as well as giving me some good memories not least of which was meeting my partner.

Naturally on my return to UK I we hoped to be living close to each other, to allow this the Service let me exchange postings with someone to Royal Air Force Lossiemouth in Scotland to be with him. I lived in a flat by the beach which was less than a mile away from the Station. During this tour I worked in the main administration office on the camp, this meant that I was responsible for all forms of personal administration for station personnel including leave and pay processing along with a range of other HR responsibilities; the feedback that I got from station personnel was fantastic and made me feel really valued by both my customers and my boss; this created a great working environment and gave me a standard to strive for throughout my career.

Whilst at Lossiemouth I was selected to play for the Royal Air Force netball squad and was flown from Scotland to London every 2nd weekend for training and matches against various county teams. This involved me flying to places like Malta and Cyprus

during to play matches some against the Army and Royal Navy teams. I would have liked to play another season, however, in May 2004 I was posted abroad to Gibraltar and this was just a little too far for weekend commuting! I spent 18 months in the sunshine working along side the Navy and the Army. During the summer our working day was 8am – 2pm due to the heat so we had plenty of time for sporting and social activities which are also an important part of Royal Air Force life, and of course time taken to maintain my tan on some nice Spanish beaches! I spent many weekends water skiing and took advantage of the travel opportunities afforded by being just a few hours away from Portugal and Morocco.

Whilst based in Gibraltar I was given my first Operational Deployment and in Oct 2005 arrived in Basrah, Iraq on Operation TELIC. I worked within a Multi-National Department responsible for the Rebuilding of Southern Iraq project. I alongside a Royal Air Force Sergeant and a Danish Major would meet with local Iraqi businessmen to discuss a range of contracts aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Iraqi people. Most Service people in the theatre I was in were living in tents and sleeping on camp beds, I was lucky enough to be living in a 2 person portacabin and was sleeping on a real bed; in all the experience that I gained in Iraq has really helped me in my approach to Service

life and I also met some great friends.

In Feb 2006 I returned to Gibraltar with my Air Operations Iraq Medal, and shortly afterwards I was posted back to the UK on promotion to the rank of Corporal. My new post was as the Accommodation Manager for Head Quarters Air Command.

Whilst in this usually simple role, I oversaw the relocation of a whole Station to High Wycombe and soon realised we had more personnel than bed spaces these are the kind of problems that service personnel are expected to solve and the experiences that I had gained along with my training helped me deal with things like this as well as the normal day to day activities of my job.

I had previously volunteered for another Operational detachment and although my preference had been Afghanistan, I returned to Iraq in Oct 2007 for another 4 month tour. This time I worked with the Planning department working alongside the Army and Royal Navy. The terrorist threat rate was much higher compared to my previous deployment but I felt confident that I had received adequate training. The base was attacked by rockets 262 times during my deployment. I won’t deny it was scary, but the great friends I had around helped me deal with what was happening. I returned from Basrah in Feb 2008 into a new job working alongside Career Managers who were responsible for the posting, deploying, promoting and the overall ‘looking after’ of all Royal Air Force personnel. I was in charge of a small team who ensured the Career Managers were administratively taken care of in order to do their jobs properly.

This may not seem like a high profile or action filled role, however, it was one of the many support roles that ensures our personnel are kept satisfied whilst meeting the needs of the Royal Air Force.

Throughout my careers I had always been interested in becoming a recruiter for the Royal Air Force and in Aug 2008 I was selected to attend an interview for a job in the London Careers office. I was successful at interview and after a 4 week recruiting course in Lincoln, I started working as a Careers Advisor/Recruiter.

I now mix with all walks of life on a daily basis and get to share my Royal Air Force knowledge and experiences. I am able to help people take the opportunity to join the Royal Air Force and hopefully enjoy a worthwhile careers as I have.

Cover to

cover Between the Covers: Women’s Magazines and their Readers

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CULTURE

Exhibition

C

an you survive without your regular dose of OK, Now! Marie Claire or Elle? A new exhibition explores the history and cut-throat, big business behind the world of women’s magazines.

Between the Covers charts the evolution of women’s magazines from the 17th Century to the present day, showcasing some of the most influential and innovative titles and telling the stories behind their success. Sections devoted to love and relationships, looking good, house and home, and the wider world reveal how magazines have responded to women’s changing aspirations.

A series of workshops will also take a look at the world of magazine publishing, from its roots in the late 1600s to the present day, covering the content and the readership of a wide range of women’s magazines drawn from the Library’s collection of over 3,000 titles, from Spare Rib to Heat. There is also oral history from women involved in the production of magazines and an engaging film looking at how women feel about the magazines they read.

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Between the Covers: Women’s Magazines and their Readers is on until 29 August 2009.

Entrance free, The Women’s Library, London Metropolitan University, 25 Old Castle Street, London E1 7NT. Tel: (0)20 7320 2222. www.londonmet.ac.uk/thewomenslibrary

Livingwith HIV “PW has supported me through 14 years of living with the virus and talking to other women living with the virus is what keeps me going.”

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hese are the words of a women describing the impact of Positively Women’s peer support services. Positively Women (PW) is the only national charity for women and families living with HIV in the UK. Established 21 years ago by two women living with HIV, PW remains strongly committed to the founders’ ethos of peer support and personal empowerment. Today, all direct work is carried out by women who are themselves HIV positive. The experience of managing the social and health implications of living with the virus, together with training and supervision, provides the structure for PW’s peer services.

The stigma and isolation of an HIV diagnosis is all too often compounded by fears that disclosing an HIV status will result in discrimination, violence and being ostracised. PW’s work over the years demonstrates that women with HIV often have complex social issues around illness, immigration, finance, children and schools, housing, and depression. These can act as barriers to managing and improving health and accessing further opportunities including training and employment. Research and experience has proven that a peer support approach can provide both an empathetic and effective method in to developing solutions and moving forward.

‘I tend to relate more with positive people than negative people, because they understand my situation, they understand me more and that is where I feel more comfortable. It is where I do my volunteer work and they have made my social life successful.” (PW Service User) Developed over a number of years, PW’s process of peer support has proven to

be a successful way of moving from isolation to involvement.

Peer support workers or mentors, act as role models and use a “solution-focused” approach, in which clients are encouraged to access and use past problem-solving skills in dealing with the new issues they face. Personal empowerment is attained through a series of structured steps which include one-to-one support and group work. This approach supports moving from a new diagnosis to accessing mainstream services and wider opportunities, and builds skills and confidence in actively influencing policy and challenging HIV stigma.

Women hear about Positively Women’s services from a number of sources; other agencies, GPs, social services and friends. A higher number of women, one in every four is referred to Positively Women by their HIV clinic and the organisation has developed strong links with hospitals across London. PW now provides outreach at Homerton and Royal Free Hospitals and are in negotiation to provide peer support at St Mary’s and Ealing Hospitals. Clinicians recognise PW as vital partners in supporting women and families in adherence to treatment, disclosure to children, managing pregnancy safely and prevention of onward transmission.

One clinician stated the reason for referral to PW was that in their experience, only once women had accessed PW did they have the confidence to access other services.

“I was diagnosed in St Thomas’ Hospital and the nurses there told me about the support you can get from volunteer organisations; Positively Women was one of the organisations that were mentioned.

They told me that Positively Women is an organisation that is supported by women who are living with HIV. So when I

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SPECIAL

Sponsored Article

Photos by Lucy Osman

heard about it I thought it would be a good organisation to go and meet somebody who is living with the virus because I had never met anybody living with the virus. I didn’t come here on my own; the nurse from the clinic was the one who brought me here.” (PW Service User) PW recognises that women with HIV come from diverse communities, have diverse needs and require a range of support.

Over recent years groups that have been established to meet these needs include a monthly group for parents – attended by both men and women. A small but significant number of women with HIV identify as lesbian or bisexual, however no other services cater for this community, so PW stepped in and a specific group was established to address this: “The first time I came to Positively Women because I saw an advert in Positive magazine about the LBT – Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender group because all the groups I had been in had been either exclusively straight women or gay men. There was never anything in between. I still felt like a spare part, so that is when I decided to come to Positively Women when I found out about a group that would effectively serve my interests, sort of ticking all the boxes because all the places I had been to did not

quite tick all the boxes.” (PW Service User) According to the latest figures issued by the Health Protection Agency, there are 7,743 women living with HIV in London, 1 in 9, are currently accessing services at PW. There are 32 boroughs in London; all with their own local health authorities, or Primary Care Trusts (PCTs). Women from every London borough are referred to PW, but only 12 London Boroughs provide funding for peer support for women.

PW continues to campaign for recognition of the importance of peer support and its value in helping women and families with HIV manage their health and social care.

‘PW is a lifeline – it’s a home away from home. I am confident in the support I receive from PW in terms of disclosure to my child, continued peer support and my skills’

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For more information visit www.positivelywomen.org.uk

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Witness War

to

Main: Women’s Canteen at Phoenix Works, Bradford, 1918.

Flora Lion, Oil on canvas.

Left: Army Tailor and ATS Tailoress, 1943, Evelyn Dunbar, Oil on canvas.

Middle: Evacuees In Leamington Spa: Unidentified Girl pencil on paper, Janey Ironside.

Right: In an Ambulance: a VAD lighting a cigarette for a patient, Olive MudieCooke, Watercolour on paper.

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CULTURE

Exhibition

Women celebrate 60 years in army Women are celebrating 60 years of service in the British Army, after the formation of the Women’s Royal Army Corps in 1949.

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his is the first UK exhibition for over 50 years to bring together the works and personal reflections of key female war artists, from the First World War to the Kosovo conflict in 2000.

Some key exhibits from the Imperial War Museum’s outstanding art collection, including recent acquisitions, are on public display for the first time.

Find out more about lesser-known artists such as Phyllis Ginger and Margaret Abbess, and of recognised artists including Dame Laura Knight RA and Linda Kitson. Explore their responses to conflict as participants, commentators and observers – both official and unofficial.

Through their wok, we learn about the constraints and possibilities experienced by female artists in wartime and how this shaped their lives and work.

The exhibition also shows how the role of the war artist has changed and evolved to a point where women are as likely to be accompanying troops to the front line as men, but as Curator Kathleen Palmer says: “The exhibition is not about ghetto-ising women artists but rather about highlighting their work and telling their stories.

“We were concerned not to put the artists in this show into a ghetto by having a specific gender focus,” says Kathleen.

“Clearly a lot of the work focuses on the experiences of women, it shows a lot about the roles that women have played in the nation’s war effort throughout the century and the enormous contribution that women have made, but it also shows some quite influential artists doing some quite extraordinary work and entering into men’s workplaces and painting portraits of significant individuals. They’re not restricted to women’s work and I think it shows the breadth and depth of what they were recording.”

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Until 19th April 2009, free. Special Exhibition Gallery, Imperial War Museum, Imperial War Museum North, The Quays, Trafford Wharf, Trafford Park, Manchester M17 1TZ. Tel: (0)161 836 4000. iwmnorth@iwm.org.uk.

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Below: Artist, Olive Mudie-Cooke, see opposite page for watercolour.

Although women played a key military role in World War I, as part of the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corp and in World War II in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS), it was only in 1949 when the ATS was replaced by the Women’s Royal Army Corps (WRAC) that they officially became part of the Army.

The WRAC existed until 1992, when women were fully integrated within their respective corps, with the Army now employs more than 7,000 trained women – 7% of the Army. More than 70% of army jobs are currently open to women, including more than 1,000 different job types.

Female brigadiers and colonels are also working in the intelligence, medical, dental, legal, educational, administrative, logistic and communications fields.

During the last 60 years, women in the Army have been awarded 66 medals for gallantry, including the Military Cross. Women have also been killed in the line of duty. Recently, Flt Lt Sarah-Jayne Mulvihill lost her life in Basra in 2006 and Cpl Sarah Bryant died in Afghanistan in June last year.

Lieutenant Colonel Eilean Cunningham, of the Army’s Recruiting Group, paid tribute to the contribution of women to the Army throughout the last six decades.

“The contributions and achievements of women in the Army over the years have been phenomenal,” she said. On the 60th anniversary of the WRAC, we today pay tribute to all army women – past, present and future, where we look forward to women breaking new boundaries and continuing to fulfil their potential with a career in the British Army.”

Women’s Enterprise Can Aid Economic Recovery Women’s Enterprise Task Force emphasises the importance of women’s enterprise to fuel the upturn.

The Women’s Enterprise Task Force will mark International Women’s Day by highlighting the contribution that women’s enterprise makes to the economy - estimated at £130 billion per annum. The Task Pam Alexander, CoForce believes Chairs of the Women’s that women’s Enterprise Task Force enterprise can be one of a number if enablers for economic recovery and is calling upon private and public sectors to support women in business during the recession by providing clearly targeted support through access to finance and procurement opportunities.

The Task Force’s message will be endorsed at a gathering of more than 80 guests from the UK, Canada, and the US, who will come together in London to mark International Women’s Day at the task force event, co-

hosted by the High Commission of Canada.

The keynote address by Vera Baird QC MP, Solicitor General, will focus on the importance of protecting the critical role of women in business during the economic downturn and the work of the Government Equalities Office. Other speakers including Co-Chairs of the Women’s Enterprise Task Force, Pam Alexander and Dr Glenda Stone, will highlight the work that is being done to influence policy and to support women directly. Senior officials from the High Commission of Canada, the Embassy of the United States of America and the Association of US Women’s Business Centres will highlight the international dimension of this day, speaking on encouraging women to trade internationally to access new markets.

Commenting on the state of women in the recession, Pam Alexander and Dr Glenda Stone, Co-Chairs of the Women’s Enterprise Task Force said: “Current labour force data indicates that levels of female employment are declining fast, especially in regions and sectors most hit by the current economic crisis. Some women will consider self-employment a good

“Current labour force data indicates that levels of female employment are declining fast, especially in regions and sectors most hit by the current economic crisis.“

20

opportunity. Interim findings from our research on women’s enterprise in the recession suggest that, while women are aware of the difficult environment that they are working in, their flexible low cost and low debt business models to attract new business from larger companies interested in leaner, high quality suppliers.”

During the past months, Real Help Now for Business and more recently Real Help Now for Women have demonstrated the Government’s commitment to helping businesses in the recession. In addition, a number of Regional Development Agencies have taken inspiration from the successful US Women’s Business Centre model, launching regional pilots providing tailored business support to help women entrepreneurs to start and/or sustain their businesses.

In the USA, the Women’s Business Act 1988 put in place long-term infrastructure to support women’s enterprise development and since then women’s business ownership has increased significantly.

Around 30% of all US businesses are majority female owned, whereas the figure in the UK is around 16%.

Business woman Alice Rendle agrees that more women are likely to seek tailored business support during the recession. ”Having run a business for 20 years, I worked through the last recession and learnt a lot from that experience. I recognised the onset of this current downturn a few years ago, giving me a chance to put my affairs in order,” Alice admits. “It won’t be so easy for those who don’t have this experience.”

For more information visit www.seeda.co.uk.

Only one in six of those working in science, engineering andthe UK In a time when technology are awomen is experiencing skills shortage, women are being highlighted as the country’s most under-valued resource* We can’t afford to waste half our talent Science, engineering and technology (SET) is suffering a skills shortage – yet over 350,000 women with SET qualifications and experience aren’t working in those fields. Under-representation of women is thought to be costing UK SET businesses over £20 a year.

It’s time forbillion some fresh thinking.

The IfUK Resource for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology you’re ready Centre to take a fresh approach to diversity the UK Resource Centre in (UKRC) is working to increase the participation and position of women Science, Engineering and Technology can help you recruit, retain and maximise in science, engineering and technology.

Established in 2004 to deliver a the potential of your female workforce. Our services include expert advice and substantial part of the Government’s strategy for women in SET, the UKRC consultancy, good practice guides, employer networking events, gender provides advicetraining, and information to industry, academia, professional institutes awareness culture analysis, and benchmarking. and research councils, whilst supporting women entering and progressing in SETLeading careers.employers recognise that gender diversity is good for business. To

discussinformation, how we could help you or your organisation For more call 01274 436485 or visit simply call 01274 436485 or visit www.setwomenresource.org.uk today. www.ukrc4setwomen.org * Realising Our Potential: 21st Century Skills (DfES, 2003)

Girls

ALLOWED!

Main and above: Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell joined local women at the Plant Training Centre at the Olympic Park in Stratford, East London while they gained first-hand experience on diggers and other equipment and learned more about the training and employment opportunities available helping build the venues and infrastructure for the London 2012 Games.

• 1 in 14 of the UK workforce is employed in construction – that’s nearly 2 million people!

• Women have been working in construction since the Middle Ages!

• Women account for around 1-2%% of trades people and 11.6% of those working in design and management occupations.

•E very year the construction industry offers career opportunities for enough people to fill a football stadium (86,000 each year for the next 4 years).

• You can work towards a wide range of professional, recognised qualifications.

• Plenty of scope to move up the career ladder…it doesn’t matter what level you start at.

• You can put your creative skills to the test in many different scenarios.

• Once qualified there are plenty of opportunities to work abroad.

• The freedom to start your own business (a staggering 35% of the construction industry are self-employed!).

•T he satisfaction of knowing that you helped to build something that will last for generations to come.

• Opportunities to make a real difference to the environment you live in.

www.bconstructive.co.uk 22

CAREERS

Construction

Big Build for 2012 The London 2012 ‘big build’ can offer construction job opportunities for women and help breakdown gender barriers within the industry as a whole.

A ground-breaking initiative from the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) will help women access the construction and built environment industry. ‘Women into Construction’ will provide taster sessions, training and jobs on the Olympic Park and secure work placements for at least 50 women a year.

Women in manual trades make up just 2 per cent of the national construction workforce. There are currently 155 women working for the Olympic Park, 34 of whom were placed by Women into Construction, in jobs ranging from dumper truck driver to general machine operative.

Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell said: “The London 2012 Women into Construction project is an excellent example of how we are using the Games to blaze a trail for equal employment opportunities. Not only will this programme help more women get construction jobs working on the Games, but also make a significant contribution to breaking down gender barriers within the industry as a whole.”

ODA Director of Construction Howard Shiplee said: “London 2012 is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the fascinating and fulfilling careers open to women in the construction industry. Through the Women into Construction project we are also working closely

with our contractors, training organisations, the five Host Boroughs and local networks to attract, train and support women into construction.”

The unique Women into Construction initiative includes: •W orking with the five host borough job brokerage units, Jobcentre Plus services and local networks to encourage women to register their interest in work on the Olympic Park.

•A rranging training courses tailored to the current and expected needs of the contractors on site •M atching women to employment opportunities once their training is complete.

•P roviding financial support for things like safety clothing and travel costs.

•W orking closely with Olympic Park contractors to identify opportunities and ensure recruitment processes are fair for men and women.

•S upporting women once they are working on site to help deal with any issues and arrange any further training required.

Find out the latest from London 2012 HQ on blog http://blog.london2012.com.

London? Live London.

Visit HousingOptions to find out more about the affordable ways you can buy your first home from a range of government backed options.

Make 2009 the year you make yourself at home in the capital.

HousingOptions gives you access to over 40 housing providers in London, who offer a range of fantastic, newly built apartments available to own and rent with an option to buy - at market beating rates.

Take the first step to buying your first home.

Call 0845 230 8099 or visit www.housingoptions.co.uk Details correct at time of print, January 2009.

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high-flying ombuds‘women’!

Caroline Mitchell, ombudsman

Jane Hingston, ombudsman

Caroline Wayman, ombudsman

The Financial Ombudsman Service helps settle complaints between consumers and financial firms – covering everything from mortgages to motor insurance. It’s the largest scheme of its kind in Europe.

And three of its most senior ombudsmen are women.

As the leading ombudsman for banking and credit, Jane Hingston oversees complaints about a wide range of businesses – from large high-street banks to the local pawnbroker’s shop. Jane has two degrees in finance and law and is also an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Bankers.

She was a manager with a large building society before joining the ombudsman service.

“I got used to change from a young age, when my family moved to England from Ireland. The ability to adapt to change has been valuable in my working life,” says Jane. “The ombudsman has grown rapidly – dealing with 20,000 complaints a year when I joined to an annual total now of more than 120,000. But what first attracted me to work here has remained the same. We help ‘level the playing field’, so people who might otherwise feel daunted by the prospect of complaining about a large financial institution can get their voice heard.”

“Law and justice have dominated my working life” says Caroline Mitchell. “They were important themes running throughout my childhood, too, as my father was legal director at a major international corporation.” Now the leading ombudsman responsible for investment complaints, Caroline’s career started at the law firm, Lawrence Graham, where she became a litigation partner at the age of 27. She held a senior position at the Police Complaints Authority before joining the ombudsman.

“Investment is sometimes thought of as just for the wealthy – but it includes things such as pensions that are important to all of us. The investment complaints we investigate generally involve sums of money that are relatively small – but that may represent someone’s entire life savings – money they’re depending on for their future.”

After qualifying as a barrister, Caroline Wayman gained experience in the insurance industry before joining the ombudsman service.

Now a leading ombudsman, she was the youngest ombudsman ever appointed, responsible for overseeing the handling of over 300,000 mortgage endowment cases.

Its ethos of fairness is what first attracted her to the ombudsman service. “Even as a child, I knew I wanted a job that made a difference and that had fairness at the centre of it.

Of course, determining exactly what is fair can be challenging. It’s our job to establish the facts in every case that is brought to us – and to consider both sides of the story.

If we decide the business was in wrong and the consumer has lost out as a result – we have official powers to get things put right.

Financially, court is simply not an option for most people – and the ombudsman provides a free route to justice.”

‘top tips’ on how to get your complaint taken seriously 1. What’s the problem? Be clear about that in your own mind.

2. Stay calm – even if you’re upset.

This helps you to get your points across clearly.

3. Write or phone? Always have the relevant policy or account numbers to hand and keep a record of who you contacted – and when.

4. Keep it brief. Tell the firm what you are unhappy about and how you would like them to put things right.

5. Take it further. Financial firms have 8 weeks to try and resolve formal complaints. After that you can complain to the ombudsman service.

The power to settle financial complaints.

www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

S

SPECIAL

Shazia Mirza

SM: In Hollywood, being in films with They have women in the army now, and hazia Mirza has made they have men doing nails, so who knows? George Clooney. a name for herself on But I would draw the line at a man doing the comedy circuit as HW: Did you have an alternative career my Brazilian wax.

Britain’s leading (and only?) path before becoming a professional Muslim woman comedian. comedian?

HW: What was the funniest moment An ex-teacher, she swapped the SM: Yes, I was a teacher. I was awful and when filming F**k Off I’m A Hairy heckles and threats of the classroom for the kids made me go into stand up.

Woman? the heckles and threats of live standSM: Walking up a catwalk with loads of up – but she still manages to see the HW: How would you describe yourself hairy women with everything on display. funny side of life. Fearless in the face of in 3 words? controversy, Shazia continSM: Itchy, twitchy and driven. ues to raise questions about “There have been so many tough cultural and religious beliefs HW: Congratulations on the staying in demand across gigs. Heckling, throwing things at Columnist of the Year Award you Britain, Pakistan and the US. me, people swearing at me, people won last year. Are you enjoying Holly Wilson heard all about performing in Pakistan, threatening to beat me up. I only did writing for The New Statesman?

SM: I love writing for The New dreaming about George a joke about Primark. People are so Statesman, they let me have all Clooney and why she loves the freedom in the world to write Joan Rivers. easily offended these days.” about what I want. They never censor me and it does have a Holly Wilson: Does performgreat sense of humour.

HW: What are the main challenges and ing on the weekend of International rewards of being a stand-up?

Women’s Day have particular signifiHW: What was your toughest gig?

SM: There is always a challenge. Will cance for you?

SM: It was tough. There have been so they laugh? Will they hate me? But when Shazia Mirza: There are a lot of events to many tough gigs. Heckling, throwing everyone’s laughing and having a great celebrate International Women’s Month, things at me, people swearing at me, time, it’s amazing. and more women come out to women’s people threatening to beat me up. I only HW: What are the main qualities you events, in groups of women or just with did a joke about Primark. People are so have to have to succeed as a stand-up? their friends, so it usually turns out to easily offended these days.

SM: You have to look odd, have an odd me more of a laugh, with lots of laughing life and be slightly lonely. pissed up women.

HW: When and why did Joan Rivers become such an icon for you?

HW: How do you feel about being the HW: Do you think women will always SM: I saw Joan in Edinburgh. Her stand first British comedian to perform in have a harder time in comedy? up is amazing and so is her life. I love the Pakistan?

SM: I don’t know. I can only talk about way she jokes about everything in her life, SM: I loved the experience, it was brilliant what I know myself from my own from her husband’s suicide to her plastic and now that I’ve performed in Pakistan, experience. Things can always change. surgery. He is really funny and honest.

I feel I can do it anywhere. It’s like when you’ve had sex on the roof of a moving HW: How are you finding being resident train – you feel you can do it anywhere.

MC at Angel?

Well, that’s what my mum tells me.

SM: I love it. It’s all gay men in an East End Pub, situated opposite a council HW: Do you think there are any ways to estate and next to a graveyard. It is a hard improve life in comedy for women? gig, but it’s really helped me grow into SM: Life? Yes more money, more sex, myself. And they play the best campest more fame. music – I love going on to Shirley Bassey every Sunday.

HW: Where do you see yourself in five years time?

*

Stand-up with Shazia 26

PROFILE: Welsh Assembly Government

Bright IDEAS for a better future Two women at the heart of transforming Wales, the Welsh Assembly Government’s Permanent Secretary, Dame Gillian Morgan, and its Director General for Finance, Christine Daws, explain how innovative new ways of working are helping to improve public services for the people of Wales.

The Welsh Assembly Government is responsible for most of the issues of day-to-day concern to the people of Wales, including the economy, health and social care, education, tourism, local government, culture and sport.

Those of us charged with delivering these services to the public are currently facing a tough challenge. The global economic recession means that budgets are tight and will stay

that way for the foreseeable future, so how do we get the best value for taxpayers’ money and ensure services get better without raising costs? The short answer is that we have to work smarter. Wales is a small country a small, clever country is how we like to describe ourselves – and its size gives us an opportunity to be more innovative in public service delivery, improving services within existing resources and providing better value for the Welsh pound.

The Assembly Government has a clear set of commitments aimed at transforming Wales into a self-confident, prosperous, healthy nation and society, which is fair to all. But how to turn that into a reality? Our staff pride themselves on making a difference, and our new IDEAS

programme is all about giving them the tools and skills they need to do the job better in the future. When we make decisions, we need to base them on clear information. IDEAS amounts to an overhaul of our finance IT systems to help with strategic planning, budgeting, procurement and performance management, allowing us to match resources to priorities and show how they are making a difference across Wales. But this isn’t just about transforming technology. IDEAS will lead to better informed decisions and better control of our finances – something which has never been so important as it is in the current economic climate when our responsibility for spending public money sensibly seems more relevant than ever. The new systems will allow us to make

appropriate investments and know what we’re getting for our money, meaning we can spend less to do more. It’s all about being more efficient and also more effective.

The IDEAS programme will also give us a “strategic dashboard”, which we think is going to make a real difference to how we are able to improve our performance and to help us see where we are delivering better services for the people of Wales. It also helps all our staff to understand where we’re going and what our priorities are. We have to remember that public service is at the heart of what we do, and our central aim is to make a real difference to people’s lives. This is a way of changing Wales for the better – a big challenge, and a real opportunity.

Different people. Same values.

The Welsh Assembly Government is the devolved Government of Wales. We deliver policies and programmes for most of the day-to-day concerns for the people of Wales, including health, education, social justice, rural affairs, transport and economic development.

We offer a whole range of career opportunities, excellent training and development, generous annual leave, a modern, flexible working environment, competitive rates of pay and a choice of pension.

You don’t necessarily need any qualifications to join us, so whether you’re just starting work or are looking for a change of direction there could be a role here for you.

Norma Barry, Director of Food and Market Development Division has worked for the Welsh Assembly Government for 10 years.

Attracted by the variety and intellectual challenge, she thrives on no two days being the same.

“One of the great benefits is the interesting and varied work.

I’ve had loads of opportunities to work in different policy areas and different locations.”

“I’ve worked hard and have been rewarded by wonderful career progression. The security is an added bonus”.

To find out more about the Welsh Assembly Government and what we can offer you visit www.wales.gov.uk/recruitment We welcome applications from under-represented groups.

INTERVIEW Oona King

‘‘

W

omen: Which are the key issues you are currently campaigning for?

Oona King: I campaign on human rights, equalities in general, and women’s rights in particular. The campaign I am most involved with at present seeks to raise awareness of the horrific sexual violence being inflicted on women and girls in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s not only women and girls who have suffered – over 5.4 million people have died as a result of this war, which has cost more lives than any other conflict since World War II. It seems that in the 21st century, men’s battles are increasingly being fought on women’s bodies. I have travelled to the Congo many times, and the tales I have heard first-hand from women who have been raped and mutilated are hard to believe. At one Congolese hospital to treat women victims of sexual violence, I saw a nine month old baby girl who had been shot in the vagina. It’s that barbaric. But the good news is that heroines like Eve Ensler (of the Vagina Monologues) are now pouring all their efforts and resources into ending violence against women in the Congo and around the world. (www.vday.org/drcongo).

It seems that in the 21st century, men’s battles are increasingly being fought on women’s bodies.”

W: Are you still interested in working in politics?

OK: I joined the Labour Party when I was 14, and until recently I worked in Gordon Brown’s office as an advisor on equalities – so I’m always interested in politics. Politics is about whether life is more fair, or less fair. Doesn’t everyone have an interest in that?

W: You have recently been appointed to Head of Diversity at Channel 4, can you tell me a bit about this role and what you hope to achieve.

OK: My brief is to champion diversity across all Channel 4’s activities, both on and off-screen. That means improving the portrayal, attitudes and working practice towards minority groups – not just at Channel 4 but right across the media.

Although Channel 4 is a field leader, there’s still a lot of work needed to connect social minorities with the mainstream, and I’m very much looking forward to this challenge.

Former MP for Bethnal Green & Bow, Oona King is never far from politics and continues to campaign fervently for issues such as anti-social behaviour, inner city regeneration and, in particular, women’s rights and domestic violence.

Oona has recently been appointed as Head of Diversity for Channel 4.

W: How would you describe yourself in 3 words?

OK: Sunny, jazzy, curly.

W: What kinds of activities do you enjoy outside your job?

OK: Being outside, kissing my kids, dancing, cooking, living.

Oona campaigns

W: Which do you consider to be the sectors/vocations where women still need to make inroads.

OK: Almost everywhere – after all, in general, women still get paid only 80% of men, regardless of the sector they work in.

W: Where do you see yourself in five years time?

OK: I wouldn’t mind being Mayor of London. But I wouldn’t mind being a stay-at-home mum. So wherever I end up, I should be in luck.

*

* *

W: There have been many advances in equality in politics in recent years. What other improvements do you think could be made for women in the political arena?

OK: If women are to be genuinely included, then politics needs to end the masculine all-hours culture that prevents many women (and men who want to see their families) from taking part on equal terms. But it’s not just politics, the same could be said for most industries…

28

“Yes “Yes Minister” Minister”

When the Government asks for advice, When the Government advice, the answers have to beasks the for best. the answers have to be the best.

Which is where we come in.

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Which is where you come in…

I mark with Edexcel because...

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We are an independent actuarial consultancy working within We are an independent actuarial consultancy working within

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actuary be far farfrom fromroutine routinewith with frequent new actuaryyour your work work will will be frequent new projects You will willbe begiven givensubstantial substantial support projectsto tobe be tackled. tackled. You support

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totoenable your qualifications qualificationsasasquickly quickly posenableyou you to to gain gain your as as possible,including including study study leave fees. sible, leave and andpayment paymentofofexam exam fees.

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Our examiners and moderators undertake a vital role in education, shaping the future of thousands of students. Being an examiner will give you valuable insight into national standards and keep you in touch with developments in education. Do you want to make a difference?

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Chair and non-executive director roles in the NHS If you've got a talent for taking the lead, this could be one of the most exciting moves you'll ever make. Becoming a chair or non-executive in the NHS is an opportunity to put your senior level expertise to the test, and to make a real difference.

For your opportunity to dazzle, step over to our website at

or call 0870 240 3802.

This could be your chance to deliver an unforgettable performance that will influence, shape and drive the future of local healthcare in your community. Remuneration ranges between £6,005 - £41,411 pa depending on the individual post for as little as 21⁄2 days of your time per month.

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We value and promote diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit.

Computer Says Yes! Women and the world of IT The number of young people studying and opting for jobs in technology is falling and more specifically, there are very few female graduates pursuing technical careers. There’s an assumption that jobs in IT are boring, geeky and for middle-aged men, but this is far from the truth. The technology sector is in fact bigger than ever and offers a wide range of exciting opportunities. By Maggie Berry, Director of womenintechnology.co.uk Recent research conducted by womenintechnology. co.uk found that many people think “boring IT classes in school” are to blame for the lack of female interest in technical subjects. There is a definite perception that these courses are dull, difficult and aimed at the ‘IT guys’ not girls. There also seems to be a distinct lack of awareness and education about the array of opportunities that studying these subjects can provide.

“ICT in schools is quite dire and many girls see it as a boring career choice” said one respondent. “They don’t understand the potential for multiple careers within the IT space (technical, management, marketing, sales, design, etc.)” Many respondents called for more promotion of technical subjects and careers with one saying we need “more information given in schools – especially about the range of job types available – i.e. they are not all highly technical. We need more positive images.”

With women making up less than 20% of the UK technology workforce, but accounting for half of the UK working population, it’s obvious that the profession is missing out on a wealth of female talent. Also, quite simply, technology is a great sector to work in and it’s

a shame that more females aren’t experiencing that.

Having more women with education and skills in this area will also benefit businesses. Women can bring skills to the table that some men tend to lack. Women are often more consensual and have better softer skills - listening and communication especially - and it’s these softer skills that are just as important as the hard core technical skills when it comes to management. It will also mean that the workforce is more reflective of an organisation’s customer base. Research from McKinsey found that if at least a third of their senior team was female, companies scored higher than those with no women in top positions, in areas such as accountability, innovation and work environment.

There are a wide range of opportunities for women in IT, from business analysis to project management and web design. Women working in technology can command very attractive salaries and have such a wide range of employers to choose from that they can pick the sector and environment which really suits them and their needs. According to womenintechnology’s recent survey women rated continual change, opportunities and getting to work with ‘cool’

30

CAREERS

Computer and IT

‘‘

With women making up less than 20% of the UK technology workforce but accounting for half of the UK working population it’s obvious that the profession is missing out on a wealth of female talent. Also, quite simply, technology is a great sector to work in and it’s a shame that more females aren’t experiencing that”

Future Skills If you want to develop the skills needed for a successful career in IT, Information Technology Management for Business (ITMB) is a degree designed by some of the biggest employers in the IT industry.

ITMB is unique for 3 reasons: It is the first IT undergraduate degree to be designed by some of the largest employers in the industry to provide graduates with the specific skills that the employers believe are essential. The degree ensures the ITMB graduates have all the tools they need to excel in and lead the industry in the future.

1 2

It is actively supported by many of the UK’s leading employers including Accenture, BA, BBC, BT, CA, Capgemini, Cisco, Deloitte, EDS, Ford, Logica, HP, IBM, ITV, Morgan Stanley, Procter & Gamble, Network Rail and Unilever.

3

It is only available at a limited number of carefully chosen Universities to ensure focused interaction with the supporting employers.

Rather than focus purely on technical areas, the ITMB degree covers the best mix of skills and knowledge for students who want exciting and challenging management or senior professional careers designing, developing and implementing technology solutions for businesses. Business, project management, and personal skills are as important as technical skills in this degree.

ITMB is the only Honours degree endorsed by e-skills UK who officially represent the IT industry to government in the UK.

technology as the top three best things about working in the IT sector. More and more organisations are also now introducing female groups and mentoring, providing a supportive environment to attract more women to the sector.

This field is a young and dynamic one, where you get to work with cutting edge technology in an exciting and fast-moving environment. Even in technical roles, dealing with clients and customers is a vital part of the job, showing that there’s more to IT than sitting in front of a computer screen. IT plays such an integral role in businesses today, that by working in technology you will have a direct impact on your organisation. On top of that, many IT roles offer extensive training designed to enhance your skill set and allow you to keep climbing up that career ladder, and some provide the opportunity to travel all over the world. IT’s really a woman’s world!

Maggie Berry is Director of womenintechnology.co.uk, the career and networking portal for women in the IT sector. The website offers career advice, free training sessions, networking events and also a new recruitment service and is dedicated to encouraging more women to build a successful career in IT.

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At University, the ITMB student will: • develop skills and knowledge that meet the need of industry today • have the opportunity to meet numerous employers throughout the degree • practise interview techniques with employers • hear first-hand business issues and solutions from industry speakers via the Guru Lecture programme • develop the high level of personal and interpersonal skills demanded by employers.

When searching for a job, the ITMB graduate will: • already know people from a number of employers • be better equipped for interviews and the recruitment process • have better job prospects due to their ‘in demand’ skill set • be suitable for key roles including: - IT Management - Strategy and Planning - System Design - IT Consultancy To find out more go to www.e-skills.com

CULTURE

U

The Beautiful

niversal beauty is a commonly used term, but is there such a thing?

Different cultures have always measured and defined beauty in different ways, and through history this has constantly changed.

Many women in South Asia grow up believing that fair skin is an indicator of being more desirable whilst their counterparts on the other side of the world spend hours in tanning salons striving for a darker hue.

In parts of Africa and Central Asia, larger women are considered more attractive, yet in America and Europe the number of ‘size zero’ celebrities has increased massively over the last five years. But just half a century ago, ‘voluptuous’ actresses such as Marilyn Monroe, were considered the embodiment of beauty in the West.

The old saying ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’ couldn’t be truer. But if you scan the magazine racks at your newsagent you will often see just one ‘idea of beauty’. The overwhelming majority of models and celebrities on the cover of the popular women’s magazines, which are consumed by culturally diverse women from all over the globe, like Glamour and Cosmopolitan will be white. They will be pale-skinned and skinny limed, as this is the look that has become the ‘industry standard’ over the last few years.

This narrow concept of beauty is fed by the women we see on the catwalks, in ad campaigns and even on MTV. On a recent Forbes magazine list of the 15 top-earning models in the world, only one - Liya Kebede - was black.

Jourdan Dunn, the 18 year-old modelling sensation of Jamaican descent who was named Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards, recently called for a change: “I don’t want it just to be this season’s phase. Younger girls who read magazines need someone they can identify * *

game Journalist and beauty writer Anjana Gosai urges the beauty industry to open its eyes and embrace global beauty from across all cultures.

themselves with, so it shouldn’t just be skinny blondes.”

Dunn is one of a few exceptions, but the fact remains, that if you are an ethnic model you face more obstacles on the way to mainstream success than your white counterparts.

Why is this? Putting a black woman on the cover of your magazine, on your catwalk or in your advert is seen as a risk. This sad situation was recently summed up when one head of a leading model agency said that black models would get even less work during the recession.

Carole White, the founder of Premier Model Management, said: “In a time of recession, people want to play it safe with blonde-haired, blue-eyed girls. It’s very much the case at the moment that everyone plays it safe and I think it will get worse in the recession. People don’t step out of line.”

Asian models are even further away from bracing the cover. Vogue India has produced plenty of models, who are huge stars on the runways of Mumbai and Delhi, yet have never been signed up by a mainstream fashion house.

Again there is the odd, welcome exception, such as Indian supermodel Lakshmi Menon who recently fronted a campaign for MaxMara, but nevertheless, if black models are considered a risk, Asian models are rarely even considered.

It is not just the catwalks, campaigns and magazine covers where we are being underrepresented.

Conventional beauty advertising and guides make an assumption about the reader’s ethnicity, dishing out advice that simply does not work for non-white women.

Ethnic women have very specific needs when

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it comes to skin and hair care.

It is for this reason, primarily, that I brought out a beauty guide ‘loaded’ towards the requirements of ethnic women.

As the beauty editor for Asiana, a magazine for British Asian women, I received hundreds of emails from readers asking for advice on dilemmas such as shifting unwanted hair or pigmentation - problems which Asian women are particularly prone to having.

For The Ultimate Guide to Beauty I researched centuries of Indian beauty rituals and traditions handed down from generation to generation. This I combined with practical tips for modern Asian women from how to select the right shade of foundation, to how to recreate classic Bollywood looks.

Perhaps one day there will be no need for a beauty guide for Asian women or for Jourdan Dunn to speak out, because ethnic women will feel catered to and more visibly represented.

But for that to happen, the major fashion and cosmetic houses must realise that only they can truly affect change and statement-making acts such as Italian Vogue’s recent ‘black issue’ is not enough.

I believe that they have a responsibility to the very communities that they sell their product to, to not only give equal opportunities to the best ethnic models, but also spark a revolution in an industry that for too long has been going backwards.

In a world where ethnic communities have increasingly become more of a consumer force, there are profits to be made from doing so, in addition to the moral obligation they have, so what’s stopping them?

We want to see beauty, in all its wonderful forms, on our covers and catwalks.

*

Anjana Gosai is the author of The Ultimate Guide to Beauty (Glentree Publishing, £19.95. www.amazon.co.uk)

PROFILE: Hype Coiffure

Have your hair styled by top Hype Coiffure stylists at a snip!

20% OFF All Hair Services Recognised as one of the most successful hairdressing groups in the UK, Hype Coiffure pride themselves on their firstclass female stylists, which include Stylist of The Year 2008 Kim Johnson. To celebrate international women’s month, the leading hairdressing group are offering women a whopping 20% off all hair services at their three sumptuous salons across southwest London. Just pull up a pew at their Battersea, Balham or Brixton branch between March 8th and March 31st and the talented team will transform your tresses from drab to fab at a fantastic discount!

From elegant extensions to top treatments and stunning straightening, they offer a wealth of superior services to make the most out of every mane. Whether you have European hair, mixed-race curls, Afro locks or Asian tresses, Hype Coiffure’s multi-talented team are experts in all textures, so whatever your hairtype you’ll leave their sumptuous salons looking and feeling your best!

Learn How To Weave Like A Pro

However if you’ve got what it takes and want to better your own hairdressing skills, then Hype Coiffure’s new course is definitely a date for the diary. Extensions are a sure-fi re way to get your locks looking lovely for spring. But wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could learn how to use them to add length, volume and a splash of colour all by yourself?

Well, the experts at Hype Coiffure have introduced a new Weave course to help

you do exactly that! With award-winning hairdressers such as Weave Stylist of the Year 2002 & 2006 Schola Rose leading the programme, you’ll be trained by some of the best in the business, who will reveal the tips and tricks you need to create the perfect weave. So whether you’re a hairdresser wanting to enhance your skills, or a style queen keen to master this hot hair technique, call Anne on 020 8675 6771 to reserve your place on the next course and you could be one step closer to learning how to weave like a pro!

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Balham Branch 71 Balham High Rd Balham London SW12 9AP Tel: 020 8675 6771 Battersea Branch 186 Lavender Hill Battersea London SW11 5TQ Tel: 020 7223 3800 Brixton Branch 17 Tulse Hill London SW2 2TH Tel: 020 7787 3000

World

Women of the 16%

Wo men in parliament

11 %

Percentage worldwide 1945–2007 7.5%

12%

17%

12%

There is no easy way to compare the status of women across the world, but Joni Seager, author, environmentalist and women’s rights campaigner, has mapped global facts and figures which give a fascinating and important picture of women’s lives across family, health, rights, money and power.

8%

3% ICELAND

1945 1955 1965 1975 1985 1995 2005

2007

FINLAND NORWAY

CAN AD A UK

IRELAND

SWEDEN

ESTONIA LITHUANIA

RUSSIA NETH.

POLAND BELARUS GERMANY BEL. UKRAINE CZ. LIECHT. REP. SL. LUX. MOLDOVA AUS. HUN. SWITZ. SL. ROM. FRANCE B-H S. M. SERBIA BUL. M. ANDORRA ITALY MONACO

USA

SPAIN PORTUGAL

ALBANIA MA LTA

A LG E RIA

BAHAMAS

VENEZUELA COLOMBIA

MAURITANIA

SENEGAL GAMBIA

IRAQ

GUINEA

GUINEABISSAU

KUWAIT

SAUDI ARABIA

ERITREA

CHAD

S U D AN

CHI

PAKISTAN

BHUTAN

NEPAL

QATAR

UAE

I NDI A

BANGLADESH

CAMEROON

SAO TOME & PRINCIPE

ETHIOPIA

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

YEMEN

DJIBOUTI

NIGERIA

ECUADOR

PERU

TAJIKISTAN

IR A N

BAHRAIN

NIGER

BURKINA FASO

CÔTE SIERRA D’IVOIRE LEONE LIBERIA

GUYANA SURINAME

TURKMENISTAN

OMAN

MALI

GHANA TOGO BENI N

COSTA RICA PANAMA

DOMINICA ST LUCIA BARBADOS ST VINCENT & GRENADINES TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

CAPE VERDE

KYRGYZSTAN

AFGHANISTAN

EG YPT

ST KITTS & NEVIS ANTIGUA & BARBUDA GRENADA

AZER. ARMENIA

L IBYA

DOMINICAN REP.

HONDURAS GUATEMALA EL SALVADOR NICARAGUA

M ON GOL IA UZBEKISTAN

GEORGIA

JORDAN

CUBA HAITI

K A Z A KHSTAN

CYPRUS SYRIA LEB. ISRAEL

MOROCCO

JAMAICA BELIZE

TURKEY

MAC. GREECE

TUNISIA

MEXICO

RUSSIA

LATVIA

DENMARK

SRI LANKA MALDIVES

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

UGANDA

SOMALIA

KENYA RWANDA

GABON CONGO

BURUNDI

TANZANIA

BRAZIL

SEYCHELLES

COMOROS

ANGOLA

MALAWI

ZAMBIA

MADAGASCAR

ZIMBABWE

BOLIVIA

NAMIBI A

MAURITIUS

BOTSWANA MOZAMBIQUE

PARAGUAY

SWAZILAND

CHILE

SOUTH AFRICA

LESOTHO

URUGUAY

1 1 1 1 st

1960 First woman prime minister in the world: Sirimavo Bandaranaike, Sri Lanka.

st

1975 First black woman prime minister of an independent state: Elisabeth Domitien, Central African Republic.

st

1999 Sweden became the first country to have a majority of female government ministers.

st

2005 First woman in Kuwaiti parliament

Women in Government As a proportion of elected officials in national government (in lower house if a two-house legislature) November 2007 Wo rld average: 17.4% Highest: Rwanda 49% 25% and over 15% – 24% 5% – 14% under 5% no women in government no data

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proportion of women in government was lower in 2007 than in 1990

T

A NORTH KOREA

JAPAN

SOUTH KOREA

INA

MICRONESIA, FED. STATES OF SOLOMON ISLANDS

KIRIBATI

TUVALU

LAOS THAILAND

SAMOA VANUATU

VIETNAM

CAMBODIA

TONGA

PHILIPPINES

PALAU

SINGAPORE M A L A Y S I A

I N D O N E S I A

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

EAST TIMOR

NEW ZEALAND

SPECIAL

Women of the World

here have been some remarkable improvements in the state of women since The Atlas of Women in the World was published in 1986. Improvements in women and girls’ literacy and education top the list of global success stories; women have won voting rights and the right to hold public office in all but a small handful of countries; most of the world’s governments have signed international treaties committed to women’s rights. The importance of such gains should not be underestimated. But, overall, the “success story” list is depressingly short. Many women around the world have experienced an absolute decline in the quality of their life over the past decade.

Improvements in one place are not necessarily transferable to other places: we remain a world divided. The globalising new world economy is based largely on exploiting “flexible” markets of underpaid workers; women’s participation in this new world economy is not an unalloyed sign of progress. The global gap between rich and poor has widened, and there are now more women and men living in dire poverty than a decade ago; women remain the poorest of the poor, everywhere. Around the world, “structural adjustment’’ policies coordinated and imposed by rich-world governments have plunged country after country into social and economic crisis; it is women who have borne the cost of managing the economic fallout.

Wars have wracked several countries; in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Congo, Sudan, and Chechnya (among many others), millions of people are living under regimes of armed terror in wrenching conditions. Women bear a special burden of these wars, including horrific mass rapes, erosion of their rights, and the unrelenting demands of sustaining families and households in the midst of chaos.

In former socialist countries, women are paying an especially high price for the transition to a free-market economy and society: everywhere this transition brings with it skyrocketing rates of violence and sexual exploitation, sharp increases in women’s unemployment, an abrupt end to government support for healthcare, childcare, and housing, and even less representation for women in the emerging economic and political elites than they had in the old regimes. Religious fundamentalism and a resurgent conservative intolerance threaten women’s rights in a wide range of states – and in a wide range of ways – across the globe. Millions of women around the world live their daily lives as little more than chattels. Large-scale systems of enslavement and oppression of women, including, prominently, sex trafficking, are flourishing.

Where is the outrage? Women do not automatically share in broad social advances: a rising tide does not necessarily raise all boats unless there is a commitment to do so. Feminists have often warned that gains in women’s empowerment should not be taken for granted: they are fragile and reversible and always under pressure. This warning has never been more pertinent. At best we can say that from Pakistan to the USA, from Russia to Sierra Leone, the halls and hallmarks of power remain remarkably unperturbed by the oppression of women. At worst, evidence suggests that a remarkable number of governments in 2008 seem committed to turning back advances in women’s autonomy.

It is as a geographer that I have found mapping to be a powerful tool. The similarities and differences, the continuities and contrasts among women around the world are perhaps best shown by mapping out – literally – their lives. It is my hope that this atlas raises as many questions as it provides answers.

*

35

Global Facts

• 70% of the world’s poor are women • Women’s average life expectancy in 2007 was highest in Japan and Hong Kong, at 86 and lowest in Botswana at just 33.

• In the USA between 2% and 5% of households consist of same-sex partners.

• In the UK 38% of women who have suffered physical abuse never told their family or officials.

• 17% of African American women who die between the ages 20 – 24 are murdered. This compares with 9% for white American women of the same age.

• The average number of childbirths per woman in Niger is 7.4, the highest in the world. In Latvia the average is 1.2, the lowest.

• 11% of members of boards of directors of the FTSE 100 companies in the UK are women. 100 companies have no women board members at all.

• Women’s global illiteracy rate is at least 50% higher than men’s.

• 8% of the executive directors of the World Bank are women.

• Since its founding in 1946 there have been 8 Secretary Generals of the UN: 8 men and 0 women.

The Atlas of Women in the World, 4th Edition, £12.99, www.Earthscan.co.uk Copyright © Myriad editions www.MyriadEditions.com

PROFILE: Kent LEA Kent offers teachers a wide range of experiences and an opportunity to work in a varied and exciting environment.To learn more about teaching careers in Kent, visit www.kent-teach.com

Nurturing the Growing Minds of Kent

www.kent-teach.com www.kent.gov.uk/jobs

Are you seeking a new career with a good salary, excellent benefits, exciting challenges and long-term security? Have you considered becoming a teacher?

Become a teacher in Kent Life as a teacher offers you all the opportunities, training, support and rewards you need to develop and build a stimulating and successful career.

Kent has 453 Primary, 90 Secondary, 7 academy and 24 special schools making it one of the largest authorities in the county.

Where else offers you the bright lights and bustling atmosphere of London, within easy distance of some of the most scenic countryside and villages in the Country?

Kent also offers easy access to Continental Europe via the channel ports and tunnel, so why not consider the best of all worlds and consider working in Kent?

What Kent as a County offers in terms of attraction, variety and diversity for those who live here, it also offers in terms of opportunities to those considering working in the Teaching Profession.

We believe that education, skills and learning are the key to success and living a prosperous, fulfilled life in Kent could help you achieve just that. We aim to provide quality education services for everybody, from early education and childcare provision right through to adult education and extended schools. You can find out a great deal about our education and diversity policies by visiting the Education section of the main Kent County Council

website, www.kent.gov.uk.

There are various types of funding available to help cover your training costs along the way and plenty of prosperous opportunity within the secondary school sector, particularly for people with skills in maths and science. Teachers can earn up to £35,000 a year and there are far

A great place to work Our services aren’t the same so neither are our people

higher salaries available when you take on management responsibilities.

Should your first thought be “Attractive, but I could never handle a class full of children” then be assured that classroom management is an essential part of teacher training.

We can promise you a stimulating career, where no two days will ever be the same, excellent professional development opportunities and guaranteed job satisfaction. www.kent-teach.com is the website for recruitment in Kent schools. Register your details today to kick start your job search.

The principles of tolerance and understanding and respect for others are central to what we believe.

If you have a degree and would like to explore the routes into teaching, please contact the Teacher Recruitment & Retention team at Kent County Council on 01622 696585 or email karen.duguid@kent.gov.uk

holidays you and your family/friends can take? How will you manage with the ‘peaks’ of busy times within the school year?

Work/life balance: Will you find the time for lesson planning, marking etc?

Age groups: What age group do you wish to teach? Do you have any work experience with that age group?

Subjects: Would you prefer to teach one or two subjects in depth (secondary) or a broader range of subjects (primary)?

Thinking of going into teaching?

What are the types of teachertraining courses available to you?

There are a range of ITT courses available and it is important that you find one to suit your circumstances.

What kind of qualifications will you need to become a teacher?

You are considering a career that is interesting, rewarding and stimulating. To become a fully qualified teacher in state schools in England and Wales, you’re going to have to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This will almost certainly mean completing a programme of initial teacher training (ITT).

Changes to rules for obtaining QTS

For all UK trainee teachers, the current limit of five years in which you can be employed as a teacher without having passed the skills tests and obtained QTS was replaced by a deadline of 31 August 2008. From now on, no one can be employed as a teacher in a maintained school, non-maintained special school or pupil referral unit in England without having passed the skills tests and obtained QTS.

School culture: What kind of school culture would support how you wish to teach and interact with pupils?

Depending on how long it’s been since you’ve been in a classroom, you may need to consider the extent to which it will have changed in that time.

Challenges and difficulties ahead: How do you cope with challenges?

What kind of experience will you need to become a teacher?

Experience of working in schools or with youth groups, for example, are important aids to learning more about what it might be like to be a teacher and also in getting onto the ITT course you want.

Other issues to consider

If you have thought seriously about a career in teaching, you will already have thought through many of the issues below. Use these points as a checklist to ensure that you’ve considered the impact of your decision on every area of your life.

Your current financial commitments: Will you be able to support yourself during a year or more of study?

Opportunties: Are there many teaching/ITT opportunities in your area? Would you be willing to relocate if not?

Travelling: How far are you willing/ able to travel for work/training?

The structure of the academic year: What’s the impact of the termly structure on how you like to work?

What impact might it have on the

38

Teaching is a rewarding and also challenging career. Pupil/parent behaviour, the national curriculum, structures of school buildings, school culture, community profile are among the issues that can be the cause of either support or challenge for teachers. It may not always be possible to find the perfect school for you at particular points of your career and it’s worthwhile considering how you would meet the challenges that such a situation can present.

When making your decision, question any assumptions you have about what it is like to be a teacher; talk to others in the profession; and even think about visiting your local school.

Your placement

The road ahead may appear a little daunting right now but don’t worry.

By the time you finish your course you’ll have all the skills, knowledge and confidence you need for that first step into the classroom.

To help you get there, these pages feature lots of advice and information to help you through your placement. You’ll find everything here, from advice on behaviour management to suggestions about how to build up a good working relationship with your mentor.

CAREERS Teaching

School placements are a vital part of your course, bringing together knowledge of children and their learning, of schools and different educational settings as they are currently organised, and the knowledge gained during the taught course.

While on placements, the expectation is that you will show yourself to be as hard-working and committed to teaching and children’s learning as the practitioners you work alongside.

‘‘

To become a fully qualified teacher in state schools in England and Wales, you’re going to have to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This will almost certainly mean completing a programme of initial teacher training (ITT).”

Case Study: Shirin Patel (age 28) I have always had the love of learning and always been curious as to how young children learn and understand.

I therefore chose to teach, as I wanted to help each child fulfil their potential for learning and make a real difference to their lives. To see the students suddenly understand something that they find difficult is definitely the best bit of teaching. The support during my NQT year was phenomenal as I had support from various colleagues in my department and I was really encouraged to observe excellent practice throughout the school. I was constantly asked to review each term and let the school know if I needed any extra training.

They were excellent at helping me overcome any of my weak areas such as behaviour management. I’m in my second year of teaching and now deal with any challenging behaviour in the best way possible.

After completing a BSc and MSC in Media Science and IT I decided to move into teaching ICT to ensure I am continually learning about a subject that inspires me.

I completed a School Centred Initial Teacher Training Course (SCITT). It was undoubtedly the best route I could have chosen, as it was hands on training. I spent the majority of my time in schools observing and teaching.

This also helped me feel much more comfortable with my NQT year as I was taking all that practical experience in with me. I achieved my PGCE in one year by competing 2

comprehensive assignments.

One of them was a research task and was about how to best motivate challenging students. The theory really has helped me in my teaching.

When I was two thirds into my course I started to job hunt. I looked on the TES, sent an updated CV and covering letter to various LEA’s. I also approached placement schools. I think your covering letter is definitely the most important document as you can really “sell” yourself. I received a massive amount of help from my tutor on how to create the perfect covering letter.

I am currently a Teacher of ICT at working at an Academy. I teach KS3, KS4 and KS5 ICT and truly enjoy it. I find the subject really interesting to teach as technology is always changing and this can be relayed to young children. I have also organised a few vocational trips for students as students need to see ICT in the working world and they’ve really enjoyed these. Currently I am also the ICT Key Skills ICT Coordinator and KS5 ICT Coordinator for my school. These roles have provided me excellent management skills and will help me in my quest to eventually become a Head of Department. I’ve had fantastic support from various people, e.g. with behaviour management, assessment and teaching and learning.

Back to school!

PROFILE: SGOSS

Become a School Governor and make a difference

School Governors needed – Can YOU help?

School Governors are critical to the effective running of local schools, and with approximately 40,000 vacancies across the country at any one time, this rewarding role provides you with an excellent opportunity to make an enormous difference to childrens education and your community.

As a governor you would be part of a team. The governing body has a range of important responsibilities including allocating budgets, appointing senior staff, making decisions on the school’s policies and direction, acting as a “critical friend” to the Head Teacher and essentially ensuring pupils are getting the best education possible.

Training is available.

Governors are people like you. Formal qualifications are not necessary (although any existing experience or skills are of great value to a school) and anyone who is aged 18 or over and has an average of 6-8 hours a month to spare is welcome to apply.

School Governors are the most important voluntary workers in education BUT there can still as many as 40,000 vacancies on England’s Governing Bodies at any one time.

Governors make critical decision that affect the long-term future of the school AND have the chance to develop new and old skills which can aide them in the workplace. Research has show how employees who volunteer as Governors can improve their handling of finance, leadership and strategic planning issues.

Emma Allen is Chair of Governors at Garrick Green First School in Norfolk.

“I became a governor as I wanted to help my local community and fundraise for a worth cause that I could see benefit from my work. I have always enjoyed helping the local community and when the opportunity to do this came I was very keen. I am trying to understand the issues schools are facing in the current climate, in preparation for starting my own family” To find out more about the most important voluntary role in education, contact School Governors’ One-Stop Shop today using the details opposite.

For further information about becoming a School Governor: School Governors’ One- Stop Shop Tel: 020 7354 9805 Email: info@sgoss.org.uk www.sgoss.org.uk

39

A positive Force

Liz Owsley: (above and below) Enjoying the challenges.

Liz Owsley is a serving police officer and National Co-ordinator of BAWP (British Association for Women in Policing), the only national organisation to embrace women of all ranks and grades within the Police Service – with a core mission to ensure that those women are heard. Liz Talked to Women about positive change in the police service and the challenges which still lie ahead.

Women: Can you tell me about your current role?

Liz Owsley: I am currently national coordinator for the British Association for Women in Policing.

I am a serving police officer working on secondment to the association. I deal with all enquiries that come into the association, attend many meetings and conferences and coordinate the work of the.

The role takes me all over the UK, into different forces, and also linking into similar organisations, i.e.

the fire service women’s network, organisations associated with crimes against women and working for equal rights.

W: How did you first come to join the police?

LO: I joined the police force when I was 18 and a half, and before that I was in the Metropolitan Police cadets. The one condition (from my mum) when I left school was that I was able to take A levels, which I did in the cadets and passed (Sociology and Geography). I decided very early on in my life that I wanted to be a police officer – not sure why, no one in my family was an officer.

I wanted to be a dog handler – I love animals, but never got near that ambition. When I joined you had

40

to be a married man to be a dog handler.

W: What are the main challenges and rewards of your job?

LO: Both a challenge and a reward is the variety – every day is different, and you can also change roles every couple of years, so you never get stale. There is always a new challenge and motivation. One of my main challenges early on was to be assertive. I found myself at 19 years old trying to sort out marriage problems with couples of every age.

You soon learn to ‘take control’, and if you didn’t I don’t think you’d last long in the job.

W: How would you describe yourself in three words?

LO: Honest, loyal, out to enjoy life!

W: What kinds of activities do you enjoy outside your job?

LO: I used to play a lot of hockey, club and police. Now I play golf – handicap of 14, and I love running.

I am in training for the Fleet Half marathon on 15th March. I love the outdoors – environment and wildlife,

‘‘

I decided very early on in my life that I wanted to be a police officer – not sure why, no one in my family was an officer.

I wanted to be a dog handler – I love animals, but never got near that ambition. When I joined you had to be a married man to be a dog handler.” and am a member of numerous animal charities. I love travelling and all my holidays will revolve around golf and wildlife.

W: There have been many advances in equality in the Police Service in recent years. What opportunities are there for women rising up the ranks?

LO: There have been many advances within the equal opportunities sphere, and it is really

CAREERS

Police Service

pleasing to see that three women threw their hat into the ring for the Commissioners job. It’s a start.

Women do have to work hard and keep trying if they want to get up the ranks. There are still barriers (men), but they can be overcome. Women have to be stubborn and keep challenging. It is easier to move police forces now, and I think women at the top ranks need to be open to this if they want to keep going up. I also think that every woman needs to encourage others. We must all see ourselves as role models.

W: Do you think there are any ways to improve life in the Police Service for women?

LO: Lots! A uniform that fits women for a start. Many people find it bizarre and unbelievable that police forces do not issue women with women’s clothing. We are working on styles and sizes from the 1950s and men’s style uniform, adapted to ‘fit’ women. Some women in specialist departments are actually wearing men’s clothes – trousers and shirts that button up back to

front for us; shirts with reams of material that they have to stuff into their trousers. Police forces state that they cannot get boots that are specifically for women!

We should stop men selecting men – take the selection and promotion process away from the police, get independent assessors and selectors.

Give everyone flexible working training – teach them the benefits, how it can help management. And I could go on.

W: What are the main qualities you have to have to succeed as a police officer?

LO: You don’t have to be macho, you don’t have to be super fit, you don’t have to be superman. The main quality is good communication skills.

W: Where do you see yourself in five years time?

LO: As I retire in September, in five years time I see myself totally unstressed, enjoying life, with a lower golf handicap!

*

The British Association for Women in Policing The British Association for Women in Policing is the only organisation in the UK to draw its members from all levels of the police service, welcoming both officers and staff, whatever their faith or sexual orientation.

Our main Aims are to raise the awareness and understanding of issues affecting women within the Police Service, and to facilitate and contribute to discussions on issues of concern to all in policing.

To find out more about us please visit the website www.bawp.org

Carolyn Williamson, Secretary, BAWP, PO Box 999, Bordon, GU35 5AQ Email: sec@bawp.org 41

CAREERS

Fire & Rescue

voice

A for all in Fire and Rescue In 1993, the NWFS was established as a self-help group for women in the Fire and Rescue Service. Over the past 13 years, NWFS has sought to influence the equality agenda, engaging with the major players in order to have the voice of all women in the Fire and Rescue Service heard.

NWFS is an independent voluntary group of people who aim to contribute to making the Fire and Rescue Service a place where women and men can work together harmoniously and professionally.

There is a wide variety of people involved, including firefighters, control staff, administrative and support staff and members of airport and works fire services.

Since its formation, NWFS has sought to influence the equality agenda. The network is recognised nationally, holding a seat on the National Fire Services Practitioners’

Forum, amongst other inputs to the local and national agenda.

NWFS also nurtures strong international links with other women’s networks, such as Germany, the USA and Australia, including attendance at each other’s seminars and events.

On top of all that, NWFS provides numerous opportunities for members (and others with an interest) to attend local and national conferences, seminars and social events, in order to share experiences, face new challenges in a supportive atmosphere and make new friends along the way.

NWFS is an independent voluntary group, funded by membership and voluntary contributions.

It is run by a network of elected representatives, who are supported by two salaried staff.

*

Please see www.nwfs.net for more details.

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‘‘

I decided very early on in my life that I wanted to be a police officer – not sure why, no-one in my family was an officer.

I wanted to be a dog handler – I love animals, but never got near that ambition. When I joined you had to be a married man to be a dog handler.”

FIREFIGHTING DOESNʼT HAVE TO BE IN YOUR PAST TO BE A PART OF OUR FUTURE. No one is born to fight fires. And in our experience there certainly isn’t a firefighting ‘type’. We have people of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds in our team. And we actively encourage that diversity.

PROFILE: Greater Manchester Fire

Because it puts us in a better position to meet the needs of the different communities we work in.

If you want a career where you can actively protect those closest to you, visit www.gmfrs-thinkagain.com

THINK YOU KNOW WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A FIREFIGHTER? THINK AGAIN.

Vibrant and Diverse Greater Manchester has a vibrant and diverse community and we feel that it is important that as an organisation we reflect this diversity in our workforce to ensure we can reach out to all our communities and strive to make Greater Manchester a safer place

and non judgemental.

The role of a firefighter involves much more than working on fires and road traffic collisions. We spend a great deal of time talking to people about fire safety, which means we place as much emphasis on personal qualities as we do on physical attributes.

Many people still have the view that to be a firefighter you have to be over 6ft and well built. People who have the potential to become excellent firefighters may rule it out as a viable career option because they believe that height restrictions, physical strength, lack of qualifications and even their background / gender can rule them out.

However the Fire Service is not just about firefighters, we also have a dedicated support team who are as important as our firefighters in the running of the service. With a variety of jobs which range from working in HR to Finance and IT, from administrative staff to mechanics and electricians, there is something for everyone.

The reality is that there are no height restrictions or any qualification entry requirements. Instead we are looking for people with a range of personal qualities, such as good communication, the ability to work well with others, calm under pressure

For more information about firefighter opportunities go to www.gmfrs-thinkagain.co.uk or why not book a place on one of our taster days on: taster_days@manchesterfire.gov.uk, For support roles visit: www.manchesterfire.gov.uk.

FIREFIGHTING DOESNʼT HAVE TO BE IN YOUR PAST TO BE A PART OF OUR FUTURE. No one is born to fight fires. And in our experience there certainly isn’t a firefighting ‘type’. We have people of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds in our team. And we actively encourage that diversity.

Because it puts us in a better position to meet the needs of the different communities we work in.

If you want a career where you can actively protect those closest to you, visit www.gmfrs-thinkagain.com

THINK YOU KNOW WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A FIREFIGHTER? THINK AGAIN.

EVERY CHILD MATTERS Fostering

Categories of foster care:

Becoming a foster carer

An introduction to Fostering Anyone can apply to be a foster carer, so long as they have the qualities needed to look after children who cannot live with their parents. There is no maximum age limit for being a foster carer.

You can be a foster carer...

• whether you have your own children or not • if you are single, married or living with a partner • if you are in or out of work • whether you live in your own home or rent • whatever your race, religion or sexuality • Applying to become a foster carer If you are interested in becoming a foster carer, the first thing you should do is contact your local fostering service (either the social services department of your local council or an independent fostering agency) and arrange a meeting. They will explain what fostering involves and will help you decide whether you are right for fostering.

Once it has been decided you are suitable to become a foster carer, the Criminal Records Bureau will check that you have not committed an offence which would exclude you from fostering. You will also have a health check, to rule out any health problems.

A social worker will then help you fill in an application form and you will be asked to attend a group preparation session with other people who are applying.

Finally your application will be sent to an independent fostering panel, which will recommend whether or not you can become a foster carer. This can take up to six months.

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Emergency: When children need somewhere safe to stay for a few nights.

Short-term: When carers look after children for a few weeks or months, while plans are made for the child’s future.

Short breaks: When disabled children, children with special needs or children with behavioural difficulties regularly stay for a short time with a family, so that their parents or usual foster carers can have a break.

Remand: When young people are remanded by a court to the care of a specially trained foster carer.

Long-term: Not all children who need to permanently live away from their birth family want to be adopted, so instead they go into long-term foster care until they are adults.

‘Family and friends’ or ‘kinship’: A child who is the responsibility of the local authority goes to live with someone they already know, which usually means family members such as grandparents, aunts and uncles or their brother or sister.

Specialist therapeutic: For children and young people with very complex needs and/or challenging behaviour.

Support and training

All foster carers are reviewed every year and receive any training that’s needed to ensure they are suitable to continue fostering. They are also given a supervising social worker who visits on a regular basis to offer advice and support for foster carers and their families.

The advice line ‘Fosterline’ provides information and advice for foster carers and people thinking about becoming foster carers. Subjects covered include: allegations of abuse, benefits, training, breakdown of foster placements, and legal matters relating to fostering.

Freephone number is 0800 040 767 or email fosterline@fostering.net.

Do foster carers get paid?

All foster carers should get a minimum allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child in their home. The actual allowance that a foster carer receives will depend on a number of factors, in particular the specific needs of an individual child. Some carers may also get paid in recognition of their skills, commitment or time.

Fostering agencies may make one payment to cover both of these.

Do foster carers get a pension?

Foster carers are entitled to a scheme called Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP), which helps them to get a basic State Pension. This is because their opportunities to do paid work are limited while they are foster caring. From 2010, HRP will be replaced by weekly credits for parents and carers (including foster carers). These will count towards basic State Pension and additional State Pension. If you reach State Pension age on or after 6 April 2010, any years of Home Responsibilities protection you received will be converted to credits.

For more information see www.direct.gov.uk.

www.islington.gov.uk

There’s not just one Angel in Islington Fostering a teenager can be challenging but also very rewarding as you guide them on their journey to adulthood.

0800 073 0428 or email us at fostering@islington.gov.uk

www.islington.gov.uk/fostering

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EVERY CHILD MATTERS Adoption

What is adoption?

An Introduction to the Adoption process Adoption is a way of providing a new family for a child when living with their own family is not possible. It is the means of giving a child an opportunity to start again; for many children, adoption may be their only chance of experiencing family life.

The adoption process

To be eligible for adoption the child must be under the age of 18 years and a child for whom returning home to their parents is not possible.

Should the child be married or has been married they cannot be adopted.

An Adoption Order severs all legal ties with the birth family and confers parental rights and responsibilities on the new adoptive family. The birth parents no longer have any legal rights over the child and they are not entitled to claim them back.

Your child becomes a full member of your family; they take your surname and assume the same rights and privileges as if they had been born to

you, including the right of inheritance.

Bringing up a child is mutually rewarding and great fun, as well as being hard work and a big responsibility. This is especially so when you choose to bring up a child who was not born to you.

Who can adopt?

If you are over 21 years old and you can provide a permanent, stable and caring home, your application will be welcomed. It doesn’t matter whether you are married or single, in or out of work, or whatever your race, religion, or sexuality. There is no upper age limit, and it does not matter if you have a disability. From January 2006 unmarried couples in England and

Wales have been able to apply to adopt jointly.

The key question an adoption agency will ask is: Can you provide a stable home for a child until adulthood and beyond? All sorts of people can and do make a success of adoption.

Once you have made the decision to adopt a child, the first thing you will need to do is contact your local adoption agency to make an initial inquiry. After this, your adoption agency may ask you to a meeting where you can meet and chat with social workers and adoptive parents.

For more information see www.direct.gov.uk.

THURROCK’S FOSTERING Local Children, Local Homes, Local Needs...

Becoming a foster carer for Thurrock is your chance to make a positive difference to the lives of vulnerable children.

Of course, we appreciate that fostering a child is not a decision to be taken lightly. You’ll need time, patience and a caring attitude, as well as room in your home. If you have all these to offer, give fostering a chance.

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For Information on fostering for Thurrock call free on

0800 652 1256

The freephone line is open from 8am - 7pm Mon - Fri and 9am - 2pm on Saturdays or visit www.thurrockfostering.gov.uk

WOMEN’S MONTH

2009

Find your local International Women’s Month Events

LISTINGS

*INTERNATIONAL

Barbara Dickson, Grand Opera House York, York, Mon 9 Mar

The Women’s Library, London Metropolitan University, Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NT, Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.30pm (Thurs till 8pm) Sat 10am-4pm, free, tel: 0207 320 2222

Sun 1 Mar

Now - 1 Mar

New Rankin and BT Business Essence of the Entrepreneur Exhibition

BT Business have announced the 20 winners of their annual Essence of the Entrepreneur competition as judged by a panel including Dragons’ Den star Peter Jones. The winners have had the essence of their business captured in a stunning portrait by renowned photographer Rankin.

Portraits include that of Sharon Richey, winner of Female Entrepreneur of the Year, who created “BEcause” an experiential marketing agency set up to create live experiences where consumers can interact with brands on a more personal level. The images will be displayed in an exhibition at the gallery@oxo on London’s South Bank.

Oxo Tower, Barge House Street, London, SE1, 11am-6pm, free, tel: 0207 479 4310, rose@kazoo.co.uk

Now - 19 Apr

Witness: Women War Artists This is the first UK exhibition for over 50 years to bring together the works and personal reflections of key female war artists, from the First World War to the Kosovo conflict

Island Women and the Olympics An exciting opportunity for women to explore the possibilities of water sports and swimming with tasters and demonstrations of windsurfing, kayaking and sailing. Boat rides also available. The aim is to encourage more local women to participate in watersports and access local swimming pools. There will also be information on Employment and Volunteering opportunities, healthy lifestyles and craft displays.

Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre, 235A Westferry Road, Millwall Dock, Isle of Dogs, E14 3QS, 1pm – 4pm, free, tel: 0207 537 2626/0207 987 0257

in 2000. Discover more of the Imperial War Museum’s outstanding art collection including recent acquisitions on public display for the first time.

Find out more about lesser-known artists such as Phyllis Ginger and Margaret Abbess, and of recognised artists including Dame Laura Knight RA and Linda Kitson. Explore their responses to conflict as participants, commentators and observers - both official and unofficial. (See Feature pages 14 & 15) Special Exhibition Gallery, Imperial War Museum North, The Quays, Trafford Wharf, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1TZ, free, north. iwm.org.uk

Sun 1 Mar

Now - 5 Sep

Between The Covers - Women’s Magazines and their Readers Indulge yourself with this captivating, colourful and fun exhibition that tells you everything you need to know about women’s magazines. How do magazines influence women’s lives and reflect their readers? Between the Covers charts the evolution of women’s magazines from the 1600s to the present day, showcasing some of the most influential titles, with sections devoted to love & relationships, fashion and beauty, house and home, mapping how magazines have responded to women’s changing aspirations. (See Feature pages 10 & 11)

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Our Bodies, Our Selves?

In these days of so-called postfeminism, who controls women’s bodies? What is it that drives young women to starve themselves? And older women to submit to the surgeon’s knife or the hypodermic full of Botox? In an age of aggressive late consumerism, what control do we have over our appearance? Now that women’s looks are no longer a route to power and influence, who is it that we want to look good for?

These are just some of the urgent questions addressed by Naomi Alderman, Joan Bakewell, Sarah Dunant, with Helen Taylor in a stimulating and provocative event.

Guildhall, High Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ, 7-8.30pm, £10/£8 Concessions, tel: 01225 463 362, www.bathlitfest. org.uk

Sun 1 Mar

Performing Arts Evening International music , dance, song and storytelling from Bollywood, Polish, Roma and other community groups including WRAP (Women Refugees and Asylum Seekers of Peterborough Group) organised by “New Link” and Peterborough IWD Forum.

The Fleet, Italian Community Centre, Fleetway, High St, Fletton, Peterborough, PE2 8DL, 4-8pm, tel: 01733 560 218, www. internationalwomensday.com

Mon 2 Mar

Argyll W@W event: Power & Participation Whether you’re campaigning about an issue that’s important to you, involved in planning for the future of your organisation or responding to consultation documents from local or national agencies, it can be difficult to make your voice heard by the people with power.

This session with Charlotte Lee will be useful to you whether you are looking to be more involved in decisions which affect you and your community or to improve your skills when involving others.

We will look at topics ranging from your experience of being involved – positive and negative as well as the local opportunities for involvement.

Argyll College, 5 Lorne Street, Lochgilphead, Argll, PA31 8LU, 12-4pm, free, tel: 01463 710 577, womenatwork@weascotland.org.uk

Mon 2 Mar

First Steps Business Club Starting a business is a daunting prospect with many challenges on the road to success. Facing these challenges alone can make them appear insurmountable, but with the support and guidance of other people who have been there or are currently going through it themselves, you can achieve your goals.

The Rivergarden, Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St. Andrew, NR7 0EQ, 6.307pm, £5 Advance £6 on the door, tel: 01603 304 018, www.firststepsbusinessclub.co.uk

Mon 2 Mar

Peterborough International Women’s Day Programme of Events Launch Street Fayre, stalls, street entertainers including Stilt walkers, Rangoli Art. Town Centre, Bridge Street, Peterborough, PE1 1QT, 11am-3pm, www.internationalwomensday.com

Mon 2 Mar

Women on Top Networking Lunch - Norwich Helen Martin, a trained Hypnotherapist and Reiki Master will give some handy hints on how we can combat stress and remain calm when all around us there seems chaos. She will explain what stress is and demonstrate quick and easy techniques that we can all fit into our daily routines to help us remain

Listings

UK Events stress free whatever the situation.

The Oasis Sports and Leisure Club, Pound Lane, Thorpe St. Andrew, NR7 0UB, 12-2pm, £21.28, tel: 01493 309 678, norwich@women-on-top.com

Tue 3 Mar

Erica James in conversation Cheshire author, Erica James, is coming to Northwich library to talk about her new novel, ‘It’s the little things’. If you would like to submit a question for the interviewer to ask Erica please hand it in to library staff before the day. There will be a chance for the audience to ask questions at the end of the session. Refreshments will be served and Erica will be signing copies of her books which will be available for sale at the event.

Booking essential. Please contact the library for further details and to obtain tickets.

Northwich Library, Witton Street, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 5DR, 2.304pm, £2, tel: 0160 644 221, northwich. infopoint@cheshire.gov.uk, www.cheshire.gov.uk

Tue 3 Mar

The everywoman Conference Scotland 2009 Now in its second year, the everywoman Conference Scotland is the premier event for female business owners looking for ideas and inspiration to grow a business.

The conference is the ideal chance to hear from and question women who have started their enterprise from scratch, and with hard work and determination have turned it into a successful business.

The Radisson SAS Hotel, 301 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G2 8DL, 9.30am4.30pm, £45 members £60 nonmembers, tel: 0141 204 3333, www.radissonsas.com

recently launched a new framework for tackling poverty and inequality – Achieving our Potential.

The Poverty Alliance has organised a series of discussion seminars across Scotland to look at this new approach to tackling poverty and what the prospects are for tackling poverty in the current economic climate. The discussions will focus on: 1) the latest trends 2) the new framework 3) local and national action The Spectrum Centre, 1 Margaret Street, Inverness, IV1 1LS, 2-4pm, free, poe.mchugh@povertyalliance.org

3, 4, 5, 6 Mar

Go Faster – Prick Your Finger These workshops are aimed at London’s women’s groups, schools, youth groups and colleges and are the first stage in an on-going project which aims to bring women together through the medium of textiles to produce alternative sportswear, banners, flags and souvenirs inspired by the local community for the 2012 Olympics. Each session will include a lecture, discussion and workshop addressing the use of branding.

Participants will create their own slogans, logos and fashions, for teams, groups or individuals and may bring a long a piece of their own

Wed 4 Mar

Behind the Hijab An evening of inspirational readings from the writers of Monsoon Press’s new anthology ‘Behind the Hijab’ with performances and artistic work from Silsila Productions and Somali Dance and Song from Oxford House celebrating Muslim and non Muslim women together during International Women’s Week.

Key speakers include Bonnie Greer, Baroness Pola Uddin, Penny Wrout and Councillor Rania Khan.

Followed by refreshments and networking.

Oxford House, 2 Derbyshire Street, Bethnal Green, London, E2 6HG, 6pm-9pm, free, tel: 0207 739 9001

Wed 4 Mar

Inverness W@W event: Mentoring Mentoring is a particular way of being alongside individuals at a critical stage in their life allowing them to benefit from sharing the mentor’s life experience and receiving personal encouragement.

Authentic relationship is the key to success and this practice- based session aims to: 1) give you opportunities to look at motivation theory and reframing techniques

Tue 3 Mar

Poverty Alliance Discussion Seminar The Scottish Government have

Poetry Open Mic with Apples & Snakes It’s (nearly) World Book Day and International Women’s Day! What better time for an all-female open mic night? If you fancy yourself as the next big thing on the poetry scene, jive on down to the Vibe Bar and take the proverbial mic (but arrive in good time to ensure a slot).

Helmed by the effervescent Dzifa Benson, and featuring guest artists bleue granada and Kathryn O’Reilly, this is another hot product from top poetry promoters Apples & Snakes.

Vibe Bar, Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL, 7.30pm, £3, tel: 0208 465 6154, www.applesandsnakes.org

Wed 4 Mar

What’s Stopping You? Buckinghamshire See “Thurs 25 Feb What’s Stopping You? Isle of Wight” Hilton Hotel, Milton Keynes, Timbold Drive, Milton Keynes, MK7 6HL, 9.30am, free, tel: 01732 878 555, www.eventskent.co.uk

Wed 4 Mar

Women’s Voices and Influence: Launch Celebration of Women’s Achievements A day of various arts and drama, singing, dancing, pampering sessions, stalls and stands, interactive games, job choices and the presentation of Women’s achievement awards. All are welcome.

Women’s Centre YWCA, York House, Cleveland Street, Doncaster, DN1 2DR, 10.30am-4pm, tel: 01302 737 463, gillian.damms@doncaster.gov.uk

4, 5 Mar

Tue 3 Mar

Manifesto for Female Social Innovators Manifesto to recognise achievements, connections and potential of Female Social Innovators in solving social and economic issues we are currently facing.

The Hub, Kings Cross, 34b York Way, London, N1 9AB, 6.30-9pm, £7.50, www.oguntemanifesto.eventbrite.com

Wed 4 Mar

(left to right) Alivia Rose, Jo Bailey and Chrissie Lloyd, creators of 3Geese, Women’s Stories Workshop, Bristol, Sat 7 Mar

‘sportswear’ to be customised. All the work done will be documented and presented on a DIY Olympics blog which will be part of the ‘Prick Your Finger’ website.

Tower Hamlets Idea Stores, London, 10am-2pm, free, tel: 0208 981 2560, rachael@castoff.info

2) establish the core skills of mentoring.

There will be space to practice attentive listening and time to discuss appropriate resources and supports.

Beaufort Hotel, 11 Culduthel Road, Inverness, IV2 4AD, 12-2pm, free, tel: 01463 710 577, womenatwork@weascotland.org.uk

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Risk and Reward: 6th Prowess Annual International Conference Join us in Blackpool as national and international delegates meet to discuss all that is topical in the development of women’s enterprise.

The conference is aimed at providers of business support and finance as well as policy makers, regional and local government officials and funders and many others.

Barcelo Blackpool Imperial Hotel, North Promenade, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY1 2HB, 9am-10pm, £50-£365, tel: (0)1603 762 355, conference@prowess.org.uk

4 - 7 Mar

Olympic Stories Bishwo Shahitto Kendro (the World Literature Centre) and Tower Hamlets Community Housing are working to bring various community groups together under a storytelling tree, collecting stories from local women about their sporting experiences either as participants or spectators. Professional storytellers will tell stories to groups which will be recorded and translated into several languages including Somali, French and Polish. The best stories will be part of a special presentation celebrating International Women’s Day. Tower Hamlets Idea Stores and Tower Hamlets Community Housing, London, free, tel: 07951 767 998, kendrouk@yahoo.co.uk

4 - 30 Mar

WomenCentreStage Women’s Gallery Exhibition Photographs, paintings, textiles, glass.

Dylan Thomas Centre, Somerset Place, Swansea, SA1 1RR, 10am4.30pm, tel: 01792 463 980

Thurs 5 Mar

Do women need a leg up in politics?

One World Action invites you to a debate to mark International Women’s Day: Do Women Need a Leg Up in Politics?

Chaired by Anna Ford and including panellists such as award-wining comedian Isma Almas and Jennette Arnold AM, chair of the London Assembly, it promises to be an eventful afternoon.

St Pancras Room, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London, N1 9AG, 1.30pm, tel: 0207 833 4075, mbirchall@ oneworldaction.org

Thurs 5 Mar

Anniversary - An Act of Memory A national participating art project marking the 60th anniversary year of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Artist Monica Ross is striving to embody the Declaration by attempting to memorise it and reiterating it with this unique multilinguistic performance. She will be joined by women from across London who will recite articles from the Declaration and perform with her.

A free workshop for those interested

in taking part in this performance will be held on Mon 23 Feb from 6-8pm.

The Women’s Library, London Metropolitan University, Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NT, free, tel: 0207 320 2222, moreinfo@ thewomenslibrary.ac.uk

Thurs 5 Mar

Bishwo Shahitto Kendro Storytelling Sessions Bishwo Shahitto Kendro are collaborating with Tower Hamlets Community Housing to bring various community groups together under a storytelling tree. Professional storytellers will tell stories and invite individuals to share their stories.

For more information contact kendrouk@yahoo.co.uk Idea Store Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BU, 2pm-5pm, free, tel: 0207 364 1742

Thurs 5 Mar

Camden Women’s Forum Networking Event An event designed to inspire, motivate and provide fantastic networking opportunities with likeminded local business women.

Hosted by Rada, the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.

62-64 Gower Street, London, WC1E 6ED, 6-8pm, free, www. internationalwomensday.eventbrite. com

established career, East Midlands Women in Business Conference has something for everyone. Now in it’s 5th year, this successful event will provide advice, support and inspiration to women looking to develop their businesses, skills, employment prospects and personal life. Keynote speakers include Rachel Elnaugh, one of Britain’s highest profile female entrepreneurs and Kavita Oberoi, Founder and Managing Director of Oberoi Consulting and Derby’s very own “Secret Millionaire” Pride Park Stadium, Derby County Football Club, Pride Park, Derby, Derbyshire, DE24 8XL, £95 plus VAT, tel: 01332 224 501, www.kc-jones.co.uk/wib09

Thurs 5 Mar

International Women’s Day Dinner Cardiff International Women’s Day Black Tie Dinner at the Holland House Hotel, Cardiff. We are delighted to hold this very successful event for the 4th year running. The year’s guest speaker is Anita Dobson tbc. The event is support of the Cardiff Women’s Aid Charity.

The Holland House Hotel, 24-26 Newport Road, Cardiff, CF24 0DD, 7pm, tel: 02920 389 990

Thurs 5 Mar

Leeds Gliterary Lunch Guest speakers include the novelist Justine Picardie who was formerly the features editor for Vogue and is now a columnist for The Sunday Telegraph Magazine and Claire Harman, a prize-winning biographer and Oxford professor.

The Loft, Cross York Street, Leeds, LS2 7EE, 12-3pm, £50, tel: 01423 873 116, www.gliterarylunches.com/event016. htm

Thurs 5 Mar

Olympic Torch – Stitches In Time and Limehouse Project Banner making workshops to create an ‘Olympic Torch’ with local women’s groups who will create the flames with textile silk painting, fabric drawing, sewing sequins, beads and embroidery. Plus egg and spoon races for gold, silver and bronze awards. Refreshments provided by Star Anis throughout the day. The textile workshops will be working on sections that will gradually build up into the whole ‘Olympic Torch’ which will be displayed at projects leading up to the 2012 Olympics.

Dora Hall, Dora Street, London, E14, 11am-4pm, free, tel: 0207 987 6164

Thurs 5 Mar

Sparking Ideas: Utilising all our talents in science and

Thurs 5 Mar

Celebration of International Women’s Day Breakfast at House of Commons This event will celebrate women in business and is a great vehicle for likeminded women to network, increase business contacts and generate new business.

Speakers for this event are: Ann Keen MP for Brentford and Isleworth, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Health Services and Helen Pointer - Female Business Speaker of the Year 2008.

House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, 8.30-11am, £30 plus VAT members/£45 plus VAT non-members, tel: 0208 607 2500, info@westlondon.com

Thurs 5 Mar

East Midlands Women in Business Conference Whether you’re in business, considering going it alone, or in an

Two suffragettes post themselves to 10 Downing Street in an attempt to deliver a message to the Prime Minister. This talk marks the centenary of this event.

Human Letters - a talk by Dr Katherine Rake OBE, The British Postal Museum & Archive, London, Thurs 26 Feb

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Listings

Jane McDonald, Jane McDonald comes to York!, Grand Opera House York, York, Sat 7 Mar

engineering Speakers will present the latest research from Psychology and Economics to show why this is the case and discuss how combining talents is good for everyone. Virginia Valian is the author of “Why so Slow: The advancement of women”, in which she uses psychology, sociology, economics and biology to explain the disparity in the professional advancement of men and women.

Additionally, Prof.Valian will discuss how the invisible factors retarding women’s progress can be made visible so that fair treatment of men and women becomes possible.

Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge, CB3 0BU, 5-7pm, free, info@camawise.org.uk, www.camawise.org.uk/meetings

Thurs 5 Mar

Wayland Women in Business The local network for Women who have, or aspire to have their own Business, who work in business or who seek to return to work, invite you to.

Limited number, in advance only and includes welcome drink, hot dinner, tea/coffee and cakes.

Broom Hall Country Hotel, Saham Toney, nr Watton, Norfolk, IP25 7EX, 12-2pm, £13.50, tel: 01953 488 993, clare@rowlingbuilding.co.uk

Thurs 5 Mar

What’s Stopping You? Berkshire See “Thurs 25 Feb What’s Stopping You? Isle of Wight” Copthorne Hotel Slough Windsor, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 2YE, 9.30am, free, tel: 01732 878 555, www.eventskent.co.uk

Thurs 5 Mar

Women at the Top An eclectic line-up of diverse top UK women from the arts, business and sports worlds will join together to discuss, share and inspire you with stories about their lives and their achievements. The evening will throw up challenging and thought provoking questions for the panel and audience alike. Presented by the Rich Mix in association with NG Associates.

Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, London, E1 6LA, 7.30pm, £5, tel: 0207 613 7498

Thurs 5 Mar

Women Reporting from the

Frontline An evening of discussion with award-winning foreign correspondents.

Female foreign correspondents have become household names in recent years with reporters like Kate Adie and Orla Guerin now as familiar to us as John Simpson and Jeremy Bowen.

From TV news and documentary to print media, our panellists have a wealth of experience and will be discussing what it’s like to report from the front line in a war zone, and during the bleak aftermath of conflict.

The evening will include excerpts from award winning reports and a Q&A. Confirmed Speakers include Marie Colvin (Sunday Times), Christine Toomey (Sunday Times) Ramita Navai (C4 Unreported World).

The Human Rights Action Centre, 1725 New Inn Yard, Shoreditch, London, EC2A 3EA, 7pm, free, tel: 0207 033 1544

Thurs 5 Mar

Women Welcoming the Olympics The programme of activities will follow three themes: 1) Hospitality & Welcoming – an Indian wedding with women coming together to make welcoming Rangoli patterns, Indian dancing and food.

2) Our Environment – photographic exhibition looking at Whitechapel High Street and how the All will be changed to become the ‘Olympic Highway’ from the centre of London to the Olympic site.

3) Sharing traditions – a story telling session about sports from different parts of the world and a culture kitchen with cookery demonstrations.

St Hilda’s East Community Centre, 18 Club Row, London, E2 7EY, 11am2.30pm, free, tel: 0207 729 5172

5 - 7 Mar

Feast East With probably the largest cross section of regional products under one roof, it is an opportunity for discerning buyers to source an amazing range of products.

Over 80 stands offering a range of the finest regional products, from ice creams and farm produced pork to jams and chutneys to fruit juices and beers and many more. Following a

successful 2008 wholesalers will be back once again.

Chilford Hall, Linton, Cambridgeshire, CB21 4LE, 5th 2-7pm 6th & 7th 10am-5pm, tel: 01582 727 567, cls@ caribbean-flava.co.uk, www.caribbean-flava.co.uk

5 - 13 Mar

Birds Eye View Film Festival Birds Eye View celebrates international women filmmakers with our fifth London film festival.

Breathtaking films from all corners of the globe including two-time Oscar® nominee Frozen River, top US indie Wendy and Lucy, UK premieres including Cannes Critics Week winner Snow from Bosnia, and Sundance’s best-loved docs The Art Star and the Sudanese Twins and American Teen.

Plus exclusive masterclass and retrospective from world-class director Mary Harron (American Psycho, The Notorious Bettie Page), one-off live music events from cutting edge female artists, moving image innovation, fashion films, music videos, training workshops, parties and much, much more…

BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, South Bank, London, SE1 8XT, tel: 0207 704 9435, emilie@birds-eyeview.co.uk, www.birds-eye-view.co.uk

Fri 6 Mar

9th Annual Women in Business Conference The ninth annual London Business School Women in Business Club conference, Beyond Ideas: Making Global Impact, will address what impact women are making in local and global marketplaces and how they are making it. The conference will profile influential women leaders and provide key takeaways on how participants may make greater impact in their respective countries and business environments.

Specifically, the conference will host

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UK Events three panels of three women each: 1) Global Economy: A Women’s Perspective 2) Charting Your Course: Career Navigation 3) Energising Entrepreneurship: Women’s Ingenuity The London Business School Women in Business Conference is widely recognised as a leading women’s conference in Europe. We have a full day of events planned with distinguished speakers, panels and networking to promote impact beyond the day’s events. Last year’s conference featured Bridget van Kralingen, General Manager of IBM Global Business Services and Fionnula Sweeney, News Anchor for CNN. London Business School, Regents Park, London, NW1 4SA, 8.30am-4.30pm, www.wiblondon.org

Fri 6 Mar

Celebrating International Women’s Day & Supporting Oxfam’s Women’s Projects.

Poetry, Plays, Music, Dance, Video, Textiles, Jewellery, Ceramics, Glass, Books, Sculpture. All proceeds go to Women’s Charities.

Dylan Thomas Centre, Somerset Place, Swansea, SA1 1RR, 7pm, £3, tel: 01792 463 980

Fri 6 Mar

Challenging Demand A one-day conference to challenge the demand from men for the exploitation of women and children through pornography, sexualisation and sexual violence. This conference is offered for free but a fee of £50 will be payable if you do not notify us in advance of your non-attendance.

(This should be by 27th February.)

Teacher Building, 14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow, G1 4DB, 9.30am-4pm, free, tel: 0141 552 2221, wsproject@btconnect.com

Fri 6 Mar

Champagne Breakfast The City of London Corporation is hosting a champagne breakfast.

Bringing together 350 women and men from across the City, this prestigious event will offer excellent opportunities for meeting and exchanging ideas and experiences.

The Great Hall, Guildhall, London, EC2, 8am-10.45am, www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ Corporation/LGNL_Services/

Million Women Rise March, London, Sat 7 Mar

Community_and_living/Crime_ prevention/IWD_2009.htm

a BBC Radio Writer’s Bursary in 2006/7 and was ‘Time Out’ Critics Choice Best Newcomer in 2006.

The Women’s Library, London Metropolitan University, Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NT, 10.30am1pm, £15/10 Concessions, tel: 0207 247 2584, info@alternativearts.co.uk

Fri 6 Mar

Fit for 2012 Poplar HARCA, Lincoln Area Regeneration Group, Takuulo Somali Community Organisation, Ocean Somali Group.

A whole range of activities including the screening of a short film made by a group of young women about the history of women’s involvement in the Olympics. Healthy eating and healthy lifestyle stalls with food to try and information. Exercise demos including Yoga, Aerobics, Athletics, Gymnastics, Basketball, Power Walking, Football and Kickboxing.

Senior Citizens fitness instructor and Line Dancing. Fun ‘Olympic’ refreshments plus crèche.

Linc Centre, 70 Fern Street, Bow, London, E3 3PR, 11am-3pm, free, tel: 0207 538 5748/0207 538 2553

Fri 6 Mar

Institute of Welsh Affairs (IWA) This conference, the culmination of the IWA’s ‘Level Up Wales’, will use the ‘Who runs Wales?’ report, by the Equality and Human Rights Commission, to explore ways we can accelerate the pace. It will feature top women, in leadership roles in Welsh life, sharing their experiences and thoughts, and will also explore recent Norwegian initiatives to achieve gender parity in business.

St Peter’s Church Hall, St Peter’s Street, Roath Cardiff, CF24 3BA, 9am-5pm, £75

Fri 6 Mar

Island Women and the Olympics Neighbours in Poplar and Island Neighbourhood Project An opportunity for free coaching in a variety of sports in association with Tower Hamlets Sports Development and Healthy Lifestyles plus employment and training information and guidance to enable women to learn more about 2012 Olympics opportunities for jobs and volunteering.

St Matthias Community Centre, Poplar High Street, London, E14 0AE, 11am-3pm, free, tel: 0207 987 0257

Fri 6 Mar

Maximising Client Loyalty - A Psychological Approach Based on decades on scientific

Fri 6 Mar

research in organisations this course looks at maximising client through client care excellence.

Delivered by a Business Psychologist it provides a psychological approach to build on existing client care skills.

1) Understanding human behaviour in the decision making process 2) Developing effective client relationships based on social psychology 3) The role of Emotional Intelligence in exceeding client expectations 4) Challenging presumptions of the relationship between client satisfaction and loyalty 5) Relationship marketing and loyalty development. Understanding what clients value and meeting their unsaid needs 6) Threats to client commitment and the psychological contract The Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RP, 9.30am4.30pm, £275, tel: 01603 620 903, admin@peopletonic.com

Fri 6 Mar

Fri 6 Mar

Sharing Cultural Welcomes Bows Arts Trust, Poplar Harca, Bow Childcare.

Invitation to local women to attend a special welcoming event at ‘The Nunnery’ gallery and community arts venue within the heart of Poplar, at the gateway to the 2012 Olympic village. There will be a ‘Sharing Cultural Welcomes’ themed printmaking workshop with Bhajan Hunjan, a successful Asian woman artist. Refreshments and materials are provided. Please bring your overalls or old clothes to work in.

Young children are welcome but must be supervised by their parent or carer. Places are limited.

The Nunnery Gallery, Bow Arts Lane, off Bow Road, London, E3 2SJ, 9.30am-12pm, free, tel: 0208 709 5294/0207 538 1719

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Wisewords Comedy Night produced by alternative arts Wisewords presents a remarkable, refreshing line-up of talented, lively female comics and poets celebrating comedy writing, with a twist!

Liz Bentley – describes herself as a ‘sit-down’ comic who plays the ukelele and Casio keyboard and is also a writer, poet and therapist.

Yara El-Sherbini presents her pithy Pub Quiz with acerbic wit and a little wisdom.

Cynthia Hamilton is a quirky, spiky, motormouthed poet with her own particular take on life.

Ria Lina with her dry wit and little ukulele, has been a regular on the stand-up comedy circuit for the past six years.

Danielle Ward with her twisted sensibilities and darkly absurd humour, has been described as ‘delightfully naughty’ and ‘the most exciting female talent around’. Open Event – Everyone welcome.

The Women’s Library, London Metropolitan University, Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NT, 7.30pm (cafe/bar doors open 6.30pm), £10/8 Concessions, tel: 0207 320 2222, moreinfo@thewomenslibrary.ac.uk

Fri 6 Mar

Wisewords Comedy Writing Workshop with Danielle Ward arranged by alternative arts This workshop is a great opportunity for you to get into writing comedy for performance and will give you some useful tips on how to get your material broadcast and actually have a career as a writer. The workshop will cover basic principles, such as finding a voice for stand-up and how to write topical comedy.

Danielle Ward, has been on the comedy circuit since 2004. She won

Women, Research and Enterprise Forum Deborah Cadman, CEO, East of England Development Agency will be the guest speaker at the first anniversary celebration of the Women, Research and Enterprise Forum.

This is a great opportunity to hear about EEDA’s strategy for women and enterprise in our region, put your opinions forward and network with other WREF members in the beautiful surroundings of the Garden Restaurant at the Sainsbury Centre, UEA. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, 3-5.30pm, free, wref@uea.ac.uk

Fri 6 Mar

Zanzibar Soccer Queens (Malkia wa soka Zanzibar) In the Muslim country, Zanzibar, women’s activities are severely curtailed. This is a portrait of a feisty group of women who have defied the cultural constraints by playing a man’s game, soccer, giving reign to their competitive spirit, and defining new roles and identities for themselves in a predominantly Muslim society. Clerical disapproval has meant that there is a lack of women’s teams with which to compete so the women must sometimes play against men’s teams.

A film by Florence Ayisi. 2008.

Including an introductory talk by the director, Florence Ayisi Winner of UK Film Council Breakthrough Brits Film Talent Award 08.

Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE, 6.30pm, £6.50/£4.80 Concessions £5.80/£4.20 Advance, www.chapter.org

Sat 7 Mar

ARUN International Women’s Day Celebration A day of celebrating women making a difference in our communities with dancing, singing, games, therapies,

Listings

UK Events crafts, workshops, displays, activities for children and delicious food with an international flavour. Theme: ‘women making a difference in our communities’. Wherever you look in our communities there are women doing great work - enriching, caring, inspiring and empowering. We will learn about and celebrate these often unnoticed contributions. Entrance is free and open to all women and children (boys up to 12 years).

Laburnum Centre, Lyon Street, Bognor Regis, PO21 1UX, free, www.aiwd.org.uk

Sat 7 Mar

At Home in the Highlands Women’s Place in the World A celebration and a challenge to complement the Year of Homecoming 2009, women as homemakers and women feeling ‘at home’ in a new place.

Merkinch Community Centre, Coronation Park, Inverness, IV3 8AD, 11am-3pm, tel: 01463 710 577/01463 239 563

3Geese Women’s Workshop We Can Make You Brave!

Come to our unique workshop and find out how to: 1) Get the courage to be anything you want to be 2) Find out and really go for what you want 3) Make those big decisions and take that first step 4) Know you are important and you have something to say 5) Do the Well-being Workout for body, mind and spirit 6) Learn cutting edge techniques to change your old thought patterns High Heels and High Ideals – the 3Geese Ethos A day for finding out about who you are, what you really want and getting the support you need to believe in yourself – we already believe in you!

Emmaus House, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1BN, 10am-4.30pm, £50 Concessions available, tel: 01458 851 016, gold@3geese.co.uk, www.womenstories.co.uk

Sat 7 Mar

Sat 7 Mar

Sat 7 Mar

Bishwo Shahitto Kendro – Storytelling Sessions Bishwo Shahitto Kendro are collaborating with Tower Hamlets Community Housing to bring various community groups together under a storytelling tree. Professional storytellers will tell stories and invite individuals to share their stories.

For more information contact kendrouk@yahoo.co.uk Idea Store Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BU, 3pm-5pm, free, tel: 0207 364 1742

International Women’s Day Southend-on-Sea Turning Tides are holding an event in partnership with Milton Community Partnership & Southend Borough Council for International Women’s Day. South East Essex College, Luker Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1ND, tel: 01702 350 475

Sat 7 Mar

International Women’s Day Brighton & Hove Will include: Dance performances & Workshops from groups & individuals all over the world, Political Debates & Discussions, Free Fabulous Food, Information Stalls from all of Brighton’s Community, Creative Writing Workshops, Singing Workshops, Djembe Drumming Workshop & Performance & so much more!

The event is open to all women & girls & boys up to the age of 14.

Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 4AH, 10am-8pm, tel: 07737 365 997, smilebecca@hotmail.co.uk

Sat 7 Mar

International Women’s Week Community Fair – Welcoming the London Olympics 2012 Women’s Health and Family Services Fair with five areas inspired by the five Olympic rings.

1) Enterprise – stalls with handcrafted goods and garments.

2) Healthy Living and Lifestyle – food and exercise.

3) Business Opportunities – advice for small local businesses.

4) Volunteering & Recruitment – information on opportunities for employment and how to become an Olympic volunteer.

5) History of Women’s involvement in the Olympics and information from the Muslim Women’s Sports Foundation and Tower Hamlets

Sat 7 Mar

Dare to Dream...Again!

Wherever you find yourself in the ‘cycle’ of life, whether you have a mammoth or minute dream, or you feel as though your dream has died, this event will undoubtedly encourage, enlarge and awaken your unique dream. This event is designed with you in mind, our goal is simple, to inspire you to Dare to Dream!

Little Horwood, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK17 0P, 12pm-12am, £79/£59 Advance/£50 Concessions/£35 Day Workshops only/£45 Evening Gala, tel: 07958 958 686/07939 157 671, info@ womenrmad.co.uk, www.daretodream-again.com

Sports Development.

Brady Arts Centre, 192-196 Hanbury Street, London, E1 5HU, 10am-4pm, free, tel: 0207 377 8725

Sat 7 Mar

Jane McDonald comes to York!

Jane McDonald, much loved singer, Loose Women host and star of BBC show The Cruise, comes to the Grand Opera House York. Fresh from sell out appearances across the UK Jane’s smash hit live concert is set to thrill local audiences with her own unique mixture of music and laughter.

Complete with her fabulous band and backing singers, not forgetting those amazing frocks, she has been delighting audiences around the country all year and looks forward to yet another memorable evening.

Definitely an event not to be missed.

Grand Opera House York, 4 Cumberland Street, York, YO1 6BA, 7.30pm, £27.50/£22.50 £25.50/£20.50 Concessions, tel: 01904 678 711, www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

Sat 7 Mar

Just Women 2009: Empowering Women Conference This event is a great opportunity to meet new people while being inspired and motivated to get the most out of every area of your life.

The day will be packed full of life coaching, interactive workshops plus entertainment!

Keynote speakers will look at how transforming mindsets can help you achieve your dreams. Workshops include; Developing Confidence; Building Better Relationships; Women In Business; Motivation for Diet and Fitness; and Discovering Spirituality.

Park Inn Hotel York, North Street, York, YO1, 10am-4.30pm, £30, tel: 07542 939 437, women@globalyork. com, www.globalyork.com/women

Sat 7 Mar

Shazia Mirza at The Broadway Theatre, Peterborough, Sat 7 Mar

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Leading Ladies – Account 3, East London Foundation Trust Event in partnership with the Somali Integration Team, Wapping Women’s Centre, Ale Douvan, Globe Mohila Bengali Samity and WITHIN groups.

A day of activities with an Olympic theme including sport, healthy living, sports personalities and speakers focussing on empowering women. Olympic Gallery celebrating female Olympians past and present, Information stalls with advice from

Greenwich Leisure Ltd, Tower Hamlets Healthy Lifestyle Project, employment opportunities through OPEN (Olympic and Paralympic Employment Network) and the volunteering training programme.

Activities include a martial arts display by Ms Sinclair (1st Dan Tae Kwon Do Instructor), Bhangrarobics with the Bollywood Grooves dancers, sports personalities and guest speaker Janette Hynes MBE, former professional ladies footballer and founder of the PMA league.

Tower Hamlets Centre for Mental Health, Ecology Pavilion, Mile End Park, 125 Grove Road, London, E3 5RP, 11am-5pm, free, tel: 07535 516 010/0207 739 7720

Sat 7 Mar

Lemon Tree Eran Riklis Writers:Suha Arraf (writer) Eran Riklis (writer) A drama based on the true story of a Palestinian widow who must defend her lemontree field when a new Israeli Defense Minister moves next to her and threatens to have her lemon grove torn down.

Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE, 6.30pm, £6.20/£4.80 Concessions £5.80/£4.20 Advance, www.chapter.org

Sat 7 Mar

Melanie McGrath Launches her new book ‘Hopping’ Hopping is the brilliant sequel from the bestselling author of ‘Silvertown’.

Melanie McGrath brings us back to the era between the 1920s and 1950s when each year London’s burgeoning East End flooded into the Kent countryside, to the tune of 200,000, to find casual work picking hops. Thoughtful, moving and beautifully rendered the story is centred around Aunt Daisy, an endearing and enduring Eastender whose annual summer sojourn in the country helped to shield her from life’s difficult realities.

Melanie McGrath lives in London and is a regular contributor to the ‘Guardian’, ‘Independent’ and the ’Express’.

Eastside Books, 166 Brick Lane, London, E1 6RU, 4.30pm, free, tel: 0207 247 0216

Sat 7 Mar

Million Women Rise March Women’s right to live free from

violence and / or the fear of violence has not been achieved. Women continue to be attacked and violated in many different ways, in our homes, on our streets, on our public transport, at our places of work. The government, the TV and newspapers do very little to address this issue; instead they often blame women for wearing the wrong clothes or being in the wrong place.

If you think this needs to change, then join us on a public demonstration to show those in power that it’s just not good enough! We need to show our mass dissatisfaction; we need to be strong together and in large numbers. Unity is strength; the voices of many are louder together than a single voice.

Portman Square, London, W1H, 12pm, tel: 07727 419 634 info@millionwomenrise.com

Sat 7 Mar

Sat 7 Mar

Shazia Mirza at The Broadway Theatre Shazia shot to fame in 2001 with her famous post September 11 th joke “I’m Shazia Mirza – at least that’s what it says on my pilots licence”.

Since then she has been wowing audiences across the country and her popularity has grown steadily. Last year she became a roving reporter for Richard and Judy and memorably presented “F**K off I’m a Hairy Woman”. So far this year she has been named Columnist of the Year in the PPA Awards 2008 and was a semi finalist in NBC’s Last Comic Standing. Joining her on the night will be funny women: Isma Almas; Joanne Lau and Andi Osho.

The Broadway Theatre, 46 Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1RT, 7.30pm, £15/£7.50 for women, tel: 01733 316 100, www.thebroadwaytheatre.co.uk

Sat 7 Mar

Women of the World Unite: You’ve got nothing to lose To celebrate International Women’s Day 2009 the Northern TUC Women’s Group are pleased to host an impressive array of international speakers. In Gaza, in Colombia and in Burma, people are enduring extreme hardship, poverty and oppression. Yet communities continue to survive, against all odds.

It is, in large part, the women in those areas that manage to keep the whole communities going, in the most dire circumstances.

Assembley Rooms, Fenkle Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1, 9.30am – 3pm, free, tel: 0191 227 5569, aparkin@tuc.org.uk

Soroptimist International Brecon & District Charity Concert to Celebrate International Women’s Day Aberhonddu Male Voice Choir Trallong Ladies Choir Annwen Eleanor Williams (soprano) Mahali Selepe The Plough Chapel, Lion Street, Brecon, 7pm, £7.50, tel: 01874 730 737

Sat 7 Mar

Sat 7 Mar

Scottish Women’s Convention International Women’s Day event Following on from the highly successful 2008 International Women’s Day, the Scottish Women’s Convention is pleased to announce details of IWD 2009. International Women’s Day 2009 hopes to exceed all expectations with invited speakers to include Harriet Harman, Depute Leader of the Labour Party and Minister for Women and Lily Greenan, Manager of Scottish Women’s Aid. The Chamber of the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP, 9am-6pm, tel: 0141 248 8186, info@scottishwomensconvention.org

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Theoretical Girl + The Duloks + King Alexander + Loose girlgroup DJs vs The Vinyl Vendettas till late MacColl, Orange Juice, Gram Parsons and Big Star.

Theoretical Girl started making demos on a 4-track in 2005, and has since released four singles. Her debut album is out in Spring 09 on Memphis Industries, and this show will send her off to South By South West later in the month.

All girl group The Duloks played their first show at a fancy dress jocks and nerds themed party, their costumes stuck and the trio have been wearing shorts and knee socks ever since.

Clwb Ifor Bach (upstairs), 11 Womanby Street, Cardiff, CF10 1BR, 8pm-late, £5, to book search www.ticketweb.co.uk

Sat 7 Mar

Very Young Girls film

An arresting documentary directed

by David Schisgall based around some of the heartbreaking stories that lie behind the commercial sexual exploitation of children in America today. Following some of the young girls who seek refuge in GEMS (Girls Education & Mentoring Services program) this uncompromising film poignantly illustrates the lives of children guilty of nothing but risking their own lives, all in the name of promises unfulfilled.

Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, London, E1 6LA, 7pm, £7/5.50 Concessions, tel: 0207 613 7498

Sat 7 Mar

Wales Assembly of Women ‘Intergeneration Crunch: No Age Restriction at the Income Barrier’ Lively, open discussion on the effects of the current downturn on women. The aim will be to note women’s experiences for the purposes of lobbying government, disseminating information, drawing attention to particular examples of increasing hardship, and the risk of permanent harm to individuals, their dependants and society.

The discussion will be led by representatives of the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, the Women’s Workshop, Age Concern, women’s organizations, student groups, women in politics and all interested/ concerned women.

The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1AH, 10.30am-12.30pm

Sat 7 Mar

Whale Rider Director:Niki Caro Writers:Witi Ihimaera (novel) Niki Caro (screenplay) One young girl dared to confront the past, change the present and determine the future. A contemporary story of love, rejection and triumph as a young Maori girl fights to fulfil a destiny her grandfather refuses to recognize.

Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE, 3pm, £3/£2.50 Concessions £2.50/£2 Advance, www.chapter.org

Sat 7 Mar

Women’s Arts Association presents Making Time A day of art and craft workshops passing on traditional skills with a contemporary twist.

Zanzibar Soccer Queens (Malkia wa soka Zanzibar), screening, Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Fri 6 Mar

Listings

UK Events Museum North, The Quays, Trafford Wharf, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1TZ, 2.15pm, free, north.iwm. org.uk

Sun 8 Mar

Handmade paper, wood-carving, embroidery, silver jewellery, felt making & knitting.

Free crèche.

The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1AH, 11am-3pm, free, tel: 0870 1211 258

Sat 7 Mar

Women’s Voices and Influence: A Focus on Young Women A day of various arts and drama, singing, dancing, pampering sessions, stalls and stands, interactive games, job choices and the presentation of Women’s achievement awards.

Women’s Centre YWCA, York House, Cleveland Street, Doncaster, DN1 2DR, 11am-3pm, tel: 01302 737 463, gillian.damms@doncaster.gov.uk

7 - 8 Mar

Seeds of Change. A weekend of inspirational workshops.

Workshops based on the theme of new beginnings include Willow weaving, belly dance, massage, crafts, talks, storytelling, felting & more.

Over the Rainbow, Plas Tyllwyd, Tanygroes, Ceredigion, SA43 2JD, £120 weekend ticket £80 day ticket, tel: 01239 811 155

7 Mar - 19 Apr

Neuro-Linguistic Training Beat the Credit Crunch and be one step ahead in the Marketplace. Carole McCall offers Neuro-Linguistic training course for women over four weekends.

Bury St Edmunds, 9.30am-5.30pm, £800, tel: 01284 719 101/07920 017 917, carolemccall@hotmail.co.uk

Sun 8 Mar

Alexander Technique Workshop for Women This International Women’s Day Workshop gives women a chance to find out about the Alexander Technique in a small group setting.

Stoke Newington, London, N16, 10am-12.30pm, £25/£20 Advance, tel: 0207 254 9206, www.hilaryking.net/ alexander-technique/workshops/

Sun 8 Mar

Argyll W@W event and celebration for International Women’s Day W@W and Kilmartin House Museum celebrate International Women’s Day 2-3pm: Help us to create artwork which tells the story of women in the Glen - past, present & future 3-3:45: The Sedona technique, with Lilia. What is it? How does it work?

4-5pm: Complementary Therapies 6:30-9pm: Dr Sharon Webb will deliver a talk on ‘Warrior Queen or Roundhouse Wife - women in prehistory’, followed by discussion and games. Please bring along a bowl of food to share.

Throughout the day, 2-5pm and 7-9pm: Have you got a story to tell about women in Kilmartin Glen?

Perhaps your grandmother or mother passed one down to you?

Kilmartin House Museum, Kilmartin, Argyll, PA31 8RQ, tel: 01546 510 278

Sun 8 Mar

Celebrity Funny Women A host of well-loved female celebrities face the challenge of performing live stand-up alongside professional comedians, presented

by Funny Women in support of ActionAid. The London Studios, Upper Ground, London, SE1 9LT, info@funnywomen. com, www.funnywomen.com

Sun 8 Mar

Event for Young Women (13-19 years) ‘A’ Team in association with Tower Hamlets Youth Providers 2 -4pm Activities based on Olympic themes including a living exhibition growing out of your Olympic aspirations with Arts, Sports, Stalls and Refreshments including a juice bar.

4 -5.30pm Showcase featuring dance, drama, singing and puppets!

5.30-6pm Awards Ceremony.

Brady Arts Centre, 192-196 Hanbury Street, London, E1 5HR, 2pm-6pm, free, tel: 0207 364 7911/0207 364 7906

Sun 8 Mar

Happy-Go-Lucky A look at a few chapters in the life of Poppy, a cheery, colourful, North London schoolteacher whose optimism tends to exasperate those around her.

Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE, 5pm, £5.20/£4.20 Concessions £4.80/£3.80 Advance, www.chapter.org

Sun 8 Mar

In Focus - International Women’s Day Short gallery walk followed by presentation using archive materials, focusing on the theme of International Women’s Day. Meet at Tour Point in Foyer.

Tour Point in Foyer, Imperial War

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International Women’s Day Launch Manchester This year’s theme is the inspirations and aspirations of Manchester women. There will be a number of free exciting activities including interactive arts and crafts sessions, information stalls, discussions about women’s health, education, employment, culture, and entertainment and much more.

Manchester City Council, Town Hall, Albert Square, Manchester, M60 2LA, 1-5pm, free, tel: 0161 234 3160, d.saunders1@manchester.gov.uk

Sun 8 Mar

International Women’s Day Celebration Cumbernauld Cumbernauld Theatre and the Studio Arts Forum present an exciting day of cultural and recreational workshops which aim to promote opportunities for women.

Cumbernauld Theatre, Kildrum, Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, G67 2BN, 10am, free, tel: 01236 732 887, info@cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk, www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk

Sun 8 Mar

International Women’s Day Hounslow LBH and Hounslow Police will be delivering a multi cultural event for up to 250 women with an array of food provided by local Mosques, the Hindhu Temple and the Gurdwara.

Opened by the Lead Member Cllr P Fisher and guest speakers include Ela Grabinska-Raubusch, Chair of Hounslow chamber of commerce.

Poetry and speeches delivered by Sabin Malik and Greta Jata, a 15 year old girl from war torn Albania.

Wonderful dancers from Age Concern.

The Civic Centre, Lampton Road, Hounslow, Middlesex, TW3 4DN, 11am, www.hounslow.gov.uk

Sun 8 Mar

International Women’s Day Hull International Women’s Day is an occasion marked by women’s groups around the world. This date is also commemorated at the United Nations and is designated in many countries as a national holiday.

Lemon Tree, screening, Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Sat 7 Mar

to be a walking tour that suits you!

Throughout March the Glasgow Women’s Library Women Make History team will be running a walk every Sunday.

Glasgow Women’s Library, Second Floor, 81 Parnie Street, Glasgow, G15RH, 2pm, free, tel: 0141 552 8345

Sun 8 Mar

Reclaim the Night Edinburgh On Sunday 8th March 2009, the 100th International Women’s Day will be marked in Edinburgh with a Reclaim the Night demonstration to protest the tolerance of violence against women in Scotland.

Female – and male – participants are invited to assemble and pass through areas of the city where women feel unsafe, so that the streets where one woman might be afraid to walk alone can be reclaimed through strength in numbers.

Festival Square, Edinburgh, EH3 9SU, 6.45pm, free, tel: 07751 575 990

Cardiff-based Black and Minority Ethnic Women’s Film Club will be screening Florence Ayisi’s Sisters In Law. Winner of the Prix Art et Essai at the Cannes Film Festival and screened to acclaim at more than 120 festivals around the world, Sisters in Law is the bestselling documentary from internationally renowned director Kim Longinotto, co-directed by Florence Ayisi. In the little town of Kumba, Cameroon, there have been no convictions in spousal abuse cases for 17 years. But two women determined to change their community are making progress that could change their country.

This fascinating, often hilarious doc follows the work of State Prosecutor Vera Ngassa and Court President Beatrice Ntuba as they help women fight often-difficult cases of abuse, despite pressures from family and their community to remain silent.

Ticket includes the film, a light lunch and crèche on the day.

Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE, 11am, £2.50, tel: 07759 933 311, www.chapter.org

Sun 8 Mar

Sun 8 Mar

When women on all continents, often divided by national boundaries and by ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic and political differences, come together to celebrate their Day, they can look back to a tradition that represents at least nine decades of struggle for equality, justice, peace and development.

Queen’s Dock Chambers, Queens Dock Avenue, Hull, East Yorkshire, HU1 3DR, tel: 01482 226 806, www.idealist.org

Sun 8 Mar

Shaping Progress Conference Entrepreneur Lynne Franks, whose high-profile roles have included running a global PR agency and developing the SEED women’s enterprise training programmes, will be sharing her experiences at a special Croydon Enterprise event to mark International Women’s Day. Jurys Inn, Wellesley Road, Croydon, South London, CR0 9XY, 9.30am5pm, tel: 0208 680 6161, info@ croydonenterprise.com, www.croydonenterprise.com

Sun 8 Mar

Sisters In Law

WWEB Woman’s Day WWEB will be hosting an international showcase, exhibition and performance from around the world. Enjoy this exciting day with all the family that will take you from UK to South Afirca, Asia and the USA, performers, dancer, singers and tasting exquisite cusine and networking with local business exhibitors.

Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP, 12-6pm, £10/£7.50 Concessions, tel: 01582 602 080, www.wwebhomestead.com

Mon 9 Mar

Barbara Dickson Concert One of the most versatile performers in the UK and Scotland’s best selling female album artist of all time, Barbara Dickson, brings her sensational show to York this Spring.

Barbara will perform some of her classic hits as well as songs from her new album.

Her latest album ‘Time and Tide’ is now out and features both traditional and contemporary songs, the flavour of which is what makes Barbara’s music so vibrant and distinctive these days.

Grand Opera House York, 4 Cumberland Street, York, YO1 6BA, 8pm, £23.50/£21.50, tel: 01904 678 711, www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

Mon 9 Mar

Tina Turner at the O2 What a way to spend International Women’s Day - Tina Turner performs at London’s O2! A survivor of domestic violence, Tina is the epitome of a strong woman. Many believe she is a true icon for many women. She knows what she’s got and she is not afraid to flaunt it.

The O2, London, SE10 0DX, 6pm, £100/£75/£50, tel: 0870 534 4444, www.theo2.co.uk

Becoming Self-Employed Workshop (HMRC) King’s Lynn We aim to give you the knowledge to: 1) register your self-employment 2) set up and maintain business records 3) know what National Insurance you pay when self-employed 4) know what expenses you can claim 5) know which pages of the Self Assessment Tax Return you need to complete.

King’s Lynn, tel: 0845 603 2691, www. hmrc.gov.uk/bst/centraltraining.htm

Sun 8 Mar

Women Make History Walks Whatever your interest in Women’s History there is bound

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Mon 9 Mar

I am women, hear me roar!

The event will explore the social and economic contribution made by women who are no longer perceived as young. It will celebrate their achievements, recognise their strengths, and promote greater recognition of the diversity of women’s contribution to life in the South West. It will also encourage women to get involved in shaping policy decisions, and their own local environment.

The event is aimed at, and attendance is free to, employed and nonemployed women in the South West who see discrimination connected to gender and age as a live issue, and who are not content to be ‘written off ’.

The Taunton Conference Centre, Somerset College of Arts and Technology Campus, Wellington Road, Taunton, TA1 5AX, 10am3.15pm, £80 for private companies £60 to public authorities and £15 to voluntary and community representatives, tel: 01823 250 811, samantha.partridge@ equalitysouthwest.org.uk

Mon 9 Mar

Improving Futures: Working Together to End Domestic Violence UNIFEM UK President, Zarin Hainsworth, is one of the speakers at this conference which aims to publicise new ways of working to prevent domestic violence and highlight the latest research on rebuilding the lives of those affected.

The panel of speakers also includes, amongst others, Margaret Moran MP, Professor Liz Kelly from London Metropolitan University, Gunilla Ekberg from the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women International, and speakers from The Haven.

The Light House Media Centre, Fryer Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1HT, 9am-7pm, tel: 01902 572122, info@havenrefuge.org.uk

Mon 9 Mar

International Women’s Day Evening Reception ‘Women’s Workers Rights’ - Invited speakers to this year’s Reception include Kate Allen, Amnesty International UK Director, Palm Oil workers from South East Asia, and Kwasi Adu Amankwah, General Secretary of ITUC Africa.

Listings

UK Events Marble Hall, Congress Centre, Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3LS, 6-8.30pm, free, alatif@tuc.org.uk, www.tuc.org.uk/international/index. cfm

Mon 9 Mar

Women on Top Business Networking Lunch - Ipswich Come along and you’ll get the chance to chat and network with lots of female business professionals, so you should make many useful contacts.

In addition, this month we’ll be having a short talk about planning for the future, by Zoe Hodge from Prettys Solicitors. Zoe’s particular area of expertise is wills, but she’ll also be able to help if you have more general legal queries, too.

You’ll also receive lunch and cocktails, and of course you’ll have the chance to pick up some business tips, share your ideas, and maybe find a solution for a business or personal issue.

Whether you’re a business owner, manager, sole trader or other female professional, you’re very welcome to come along.

The Belstead Brook Hotel, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 9HB, 12-2pm, £21.28, tel: 01206 266 766, colchester@women-on-top.com

Mon 9 Mar

Women Through the Ages - a Celebration!

Wales Women’s National Coalition and partners present Speakers, stalls Discussion, Workshops and Debate: Keynote Speaker: Judith Hall, Welsh Woman of the Year 2008 Workshops: Women & Climate Change Solidarity for women in South Africa Feminism past and present Women Making a Difference.

Question time chaired by Rosemary Butler with Nerys Evans AM, Estelle Hart, Audrey Jones and others......

Free crèche - Limited places available on a first come first served basis.

City Hall, Cardiff Civic Centre, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ND, 10.30am-3.30pm, free, www.cymruwomen.org.uk

Great Yarmouth, tel: 0845 603 2691, www.hmrc.gov.uk/bst/centraltraining. htm

Tue 10 Mar

Bridging the Generation Gap Women Connect First, a charity empowering BME women in Cardiff and south Wales, are organizing an all-day event Including a multicultural fashion show, pampering beauty treatments, ‘past and present’ workshops, information sessions, stalls and much more!

Everyone welcome.

City Hall, Cardiff Civic Centre, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ND, 10.30am-4pm, free, www.croesoproject.org

Tue 10 Mar

Employment Law - Ask the Expect and Networking Event Emmajane Taylor-Moran from McKeowns will cover a number of employment law matters relevant to businesses. Issues such as ensuring that the recruitment process is fair and non-discriminatory will be covered. She will also explore main areas of discrimination namely: race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation and religion. This is an area which can be frought with difficulties especially for the small business owner with little or no previous Human Resources expertise.

Mistakes can be costly if tribunal claims are brought by unsuccessful candidates. This will be followed by a free buffet lunch and networking.

Bedford Room, Holiday Inn Garden Court Sandy, Girtford Bridge, London Road, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 1NA, 11.30am-2pm, free, alison. medlock@enterprising-women.org

Tue 10 Mar

In Conversation with Nicola & Teena Collins Following the screening of their film ‘The End’.

Discovered by a model scout whilst shopping at the age of 15, twin sisters Nicola & Teena Collins travelled the globe, being shot for the likes of Vogue, Elle Magazine and Stella McCartney. Having starred in Guy Ritchie’s film ‘Snatch’, the two found that their passion for film lay behind the camera, rather than in front. The sisters will talk of the inspiration for their first film ‘The End’ – a challenging and gritty tale about their father who was involved in the complex underworld of real life cockney ‘gangsters’ – and their personal journey of its making.

Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, London, E1 6LA, 9.30pm (film show 8pm), £10/7 Concessions - joint ticket for film and In Conversation, tel: 0207 613 7498

Tue 10 Mar

Women in Business Network (WIBN) Flitwick We are professional business women who want to meet other like-minded business owners/influencers.

Our meetings are successful and good business is passed due to the support and encouragement from our members and visitors alike.

Women love to help other women in a non competitive environment.

WIBN holds structured and effective lunchtime meetings that are completely results focussed yet fun! Our meetings are supported and friendly.

Flitwick Manor, Church Road, Flitwick, Beds, MK45 1AE, 12-2pm, £18 members

Tue 10 Mar

Becoming Self-Employed Workshop (HMRC) Great Yarmouth See “Mon 9 Mar Becoming SelfEmployed Workshop (HMRC) King’s Lynn”

Dare to Dream...Again!, daytime conference and evening Gala exclusively for women, Little Horwood, Buckinghamshire, 7 Mar

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£22 non members, tel: 0845 868 0933, emily@wibn.co.uk, www.wibn.co.uk

Tue 10 Mar

Women on Top Networking Lunch - Great Yarmouth & Lowestoft Sue Rolfe and Banham Graham Accountants based in Gorleston will be offering advice on how to beat the credit crunch and ensure that you get your invoices paid on time.

So, if you want to pick up some sound advice to help your business through these tough economic times as well as being pampered and indulged with a delicious lunch and cocktail along with the odd chocolate or two then please join us. You will experience our unique TLC session where you get to ‘do business’ with each other.

The Cliff Hotel, Cliff Hill, Gorleston, Gt. Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 6DH, 12-2pm, £21.28, tel: 01493 309 678/07900 576 528, gtyarmouth@women-on-top.com

Wed 11 Mar

Becoming Self-Employed Workshop (HMRC) Bury St Edmunds See “Mon 9 Mar Becoming SelfEmployed Workshop (HMRC) King’s Lynn” Bury St Edmunds, tel: 0845 603 2691, www.hmrc.gov.uk/bst/centraltraining. htm

Wed 11 Mar

B2010: Market and Finance Readiness for Women (MFR 4 Women) In today’s difficult and uncertain economic climate, this course will really help you take the risk out of being in business. The MFR 4 Women training programme focuses on providing the essential strategic and tactical expertise for achieving business growth including the most critical and challenging part of any business - the ability for your business to get the right number of customers at the right price.

The training session will be delivered

by Bev Hurley, one of the region’s leading businesswomen with much firsthand experience of growing companies.

Norfolk Network, St Faith’s House, Mountergate, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1PY, 9.30am-4pm, £75.50 for eligible businesses, alison.medlock@ enterprising-women.org

Wed 11 Mar

International Women’s Day SI Aylesbury and District Our guest speaker will be Sejal Karia from BBC Oxford, and there will be Indian dancing, a fashion show, stands selling jewellery, bags, hats, saris, and much, much more.

Proceeds from the raffle will be donated to Aylesbury Young Carers and The Peace and Hope Trust.

Aylesbury College, Aylesbury, HP21 8PD, 6.30-9.30pm, £10, www.soroptimist-gbi.co.uk/aylesbruyand-district

Wed 11 Mar

Norfolk Netwalking - Theatre Royal Backstage Tour Join this informal, friendly networking group for a free backstage “walk” at the Theatre Royal, Norwich. A rare opportunity to enjoy Norwich’s own Theatre Royal from a different angle; with a behind the scenes tour. If you have enjoyed a performance and wondered how it was put together, then this is the Netwalk for you.

To arrange the tour we have moved Netwalking Tuesday to a Wednesday which will open up the Netwalk to those who are usually

otherwise engaged. This special theatre walk is free, but strictly limited to 30 people on a first book, first walk basis.

Meeting at the restaurant in the Theatre at 6pm for an early supper before the tour.

Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL, 6-9pm, free, tel: 01603 716 700, kate@activemd.co.uk

Wed 11 Mar

2009 Photographic Exhibition Launch Reception Annette Williams, Director of the UK Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology (UKRC) cordially invites you to our launch reception to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women in SET. Wellcome Collection, 183 Euston Road, London, NW1 2BE, 6-8pm, tel: 01274 436 485, info@ukrc4setwomen.org

Wed 11 Mar

She Who Dares The Women’s Group invite you to come and try some new and unusual outdoor sports that you may not have considered before. The Group was

launched over 10 years ago and now women of all ages and all abilities (including special needs) can get involved. The cost of these sessions are designed to give everyone the chance to try out these fantastic activities... and have some fun at the same time!

Harlow Outdoors Centre for Outdoor Learning, Burnt Mill Lane, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2QS, 9.30am-12.30pm, tel: 01279 620 270, www.harlowoutdoors.co.uk

Wed 11 Mar

WAFE meeting The International Federation of Women against Fundamentalism and for Equality will be chaired by Baroness Harris of Richmond, with Lord Lester of Herne Hill, QC talking on the Limits of Tolerance.

Room G, House of Lords, London, SW1A 0PW, 6-8pm, free, es_mantra@onetel.com

Wed 11 Mar

‘Wiked Words and Witty Women’ Stories, readings, performances, publishers & writing workshops, to celebrate women’s literature and unleash creativity.

Meet independent Welsh publishers & take part in writing workshops with a difference!

Talented guests such as Susan Richardson, Emily Hinshelwood, Cath Little and Ivy Alvarez - this night is a must for all word- loving ladies!

Milgi Lounge, 213 City Road, Roath, Cardiff, CF24 3JD, 7pm, free, tel: 02920 473 150

Wed 11 Mar

Women on Top - Hemel Hempstead Come along to our event Web Workout and get tips on getting your website right. Lots of jargon busting tips and a chance to network with local business women. You will also be able to take part in our TLC session which helps you find contacts and solutions to business or personal issues-come along and find out more No 60 second presentations, no pressure and a relaxed but productive environment awaits.

Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Hemel Hempstead, AL3 7AF, 12-2pm, £21.28, tel: 01442 382 682, deb.gilbert@hotmail.co.uk

Karen Darke, Explorer Extraordinaire, keynote speaker, East Midlands Women in Business Conference, Pride Park Stadium, Derbyshire, Thurs 5 Mar

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Thurs 12 Mar

Edinburgh Gliterary Lunch Guest speakers include Marcel Theroux and Mary Turner Thomson.

The Jam House, 5 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JE, 12-3pm, £50, tel: 01423 873116, www.gliterarylunches. com/event017.htm

Thurs 12 Mar

Ethnic Minority Women Councillors’ Taskforce event Chester led by Cllr Mia Jones See “Fri 13 Feb Ethnic Minority Women Concillors’ Taskforce event Glasgow led by ex cllr Neelam Bakshi” University of Chester, Binks Building, Parkgate Road, Chester, CH1 4BJ, 6-8.30pm, free, tel: 0208 481 3375, BAME@livegroup.co.uk, www.livegroup.co.uk/BAME

Thurs 12 Mar

Exiled Writers Ink - Crossing Borders: Arab and Jewish Women Poets An evening featuring four female poets arranged by Exiled Writers Ink. Lina Abou Baker, a Palestinian poet and Lynette Craig will speak, latter exploring dispossession and persecution in her collection ‘Burning Palaces’ (Flarestack). Also present will be Jennifer Langer, the daughter of Holocaust survivors examines the complexity of identity and confronts difficult issues. She is the secretary of Exiled Writers Ink. Idea Store Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BU, 6.30pm-8.30pm, free, tel: 0207 364 1742

Thurs 12 Mar

Introduction to Hot Topics in Employment Law Kingsley Napley will provide useful insights and practical advice dealing with recent case law developments and imminent legislative changes impacting employment law and HR practice in the forthcoming seminar.

Issues discussed will include the major upheaval of discrimination law, equal pay and how it can effect outsourcing and insourcing, the new agency worker rules and the forthcoming changes to the discipline and dismissal procedures and what this means for you. The seminar is focused at HR and employment law professionals.

Kingsley Napley offices - Knights Quarter, 14 St. Johns Lane, London,

Listings

Ruby Loftus screwing a Breech-ring, 1943, Dame Laura Knight RA., Oil on canvas, Witness: Women War Artists exhibition, Imperial War Museum North, Manchester, Now - 19 Apr

EC1M 4AJ, 8.45-10am, free, tel: 0207 422 9214, slilley@womenin.co.uk, www.womenintechnology.co.uk

Thurs 12 Mar

PR - Ask the Expert and Networking Event in Suffolk Join us to hear from Enterprising Women member and media expert, Sarah Wilkin, founder of Honey PR. Sarah will share business hints and tips to help you succeed in PR. If you have any questions regarding Media and PR please come along as there will be a 20 minute question and answer session after the presentation.

This will be followed by a free buffet lunch and networking.

The Cavendish Suite - The Bell, Market Hill, Clare, Suffolk, C10 8NN, free, 11.30am-2pm, alison.medlock@ entreprising-women.org

Thurs 12 Mar

Tomorrow’s Women, Tomorrow’s World Join us for a day of future gazing that will be both inspiring and strategic. Looking to the future is an important exercise - more so in times of accelerated change and economic difficulty. We will envisage and explore gender equality in science, engineering, technology and the built environment (SET) workforce of 2030 in order to identify and share strategies and solutions for today. Closing date for bookings: 6th March.

Hotel Andaz, 40 Liverpool Street, London, EC2M 7QN, 9.30am-5pm, £40-£180 free for women in SET groups/orgs, women in SET jobseekers and SET students, tel: 01274 436 485, info@ukrc4setwomen.org

Thurs 12 Mar

Women’s Workshop Launch of the Newlife Project NewLife is an innovative 5 year project funded by the Big Lottery that is working with young mothers aged 16-25 and pregnant young women. The project is addressing the multiple issues faced by these young women and their children.

The project provides sustainable, practical life skills that will enable the young women to break the potential cycle of poverty and deprivation.

The Women’s Workshop, Clarence House, Clarence Road, Butetown, Cardiff, CF10 5FB, 10.45am1pm, free, newlifelaunch@ womensworkshop.org.uk,

www.womensworkshop.org.uk

Thurs 12 Mar

Women Writers Unite!

To mark International Women’s Day we’re holding the first in a series of writer’s evenings.

Creativity will be unleashed as Zoe Strachan and Elizabeth Reeder introduce writers to give readings of their work on the theme of Women and Animals.

Including readings from published author Mandy Haggith as well as new writers from the postgraduate creative writing programme at Glasgow University. So come along and be inspired by the wonderful work of these women writers. Get in touch to book your place.

Glasgow Women’s Library, Second Floor, 81 Parnie Street, Glasgow, G15RH, 7pm, free, tel: 0141 552 8345

Fri 13 Mar

Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company and The Drum present These Four Streets

By Naylah Ahmed, Sonali Bhattacharyya, Jennifer Farmer, Lorna French, Amber Lone and Cheryl Akila Payne A collaboration between six young female writers, These Four Streets explores the power of rumour and what it’s like to live in a place that has been written off. In October 2005 the rumour of a rape sparked disturbances in Lozells, Birmingham that led to the killing of one man, widespread damage and a fracture between two communities that had previously appeared to be living happily alongside one another. Age Restriction 14+ The Drum, 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham, B6 4UU, 12.30pm, £5 School Bookings £3.50, tel: 0121 333 2444, www.the-drum.org.uk

Fri 13 Mar

Moya Brennan They call Moya Brennan the first lady of Celtic music. Moya Brennan has enjoyed many years as the voice of Clannad, one of Ireland’s most respected acts. We are very pleased to welcome Moya for her first appearance at The Brewery and a show that will be a powerful and honest account of music, fame, misfortune, love and spirituality as only the beautiful voice of Moya Brennan can deliver.

Brewery Arts Centre, Highgate,

Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE, 8pm-10.15pm, £15, tel: 01539 725 133, info@breweryarts.co.uk, www.breweryarts.co.uk

Fri 13 Mar

The Vagina Monologues Based on author Eve Ensler’s ‘Vagina Interviews’ conducted with women from all around the world, this hilariously witty and moving collection of tales gives voice to a chorus of lusty, outrageous, poignant, brave and thoroughly human stories.

As sharp as Sex and the City and as unmissable as Friends - bring your mum, your best friend, your sister or even your granny – this is the ultimate girls night out… trust us!

Grand Opera House York, 4 Cumberland Street, York, YO1 6BA, 7.30pm, £20.00, tel: 01904 678711, www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

Fri 13 Mar

Violence against women in a global and local context Cardiff Women’s Aid, BAWSO and MEWN Cymru present panel discussion on this difficult topic, led

by Kirsty Williams AM, followed by lunch & workshops.

Includes international video link-ups with women activists.

City Hall, Cardiff Civic Centre, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ND, 10am-3.30pm, free, www.cymruwomen.org.uk

13 - 15 Mar

Rokeya’s Dream ‘Rokeya’s Dream’ is a play based on a satire (Sultana’s Dream) written by Rokeya Sakhawat Hossein (18801932) a social reformer, prolific writer, committed feminist and determined campaigner for women’s rights and freedom in Victorian colonial India. Though written 100 years ago, the theme of ‘Sultanas Dream’ is contemporary and timeless highlighting issues very pertinent

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UK Events in today’s world. Set in Bengal, the play presents an unconventional inverted world with roles of men and women reversed. Men are kept in ‘purdah’ and waste time in warfare whilst women govern the country and engage in scientific innovations creating green cities using solar energy. ‘Rokeya’s Dream’ is written by Rae Leaver and directed by Muhul Ahmed.

Brady Arts Centre, 192-196 Hanbury Street, London, E1 5HU, 7.30pm, free, tel: 020 7364 7900

Sat 14 Mar

A Free Day Out for Women There will be entertainment, speeches and unsung women’s awards, and more.

CONEL (College of North East London), Tottenham High Road, London, N15 6PP, 11am-5pm, free, tel: 020 8489 2585, www.haringeywomen.org.uk

Sat 14 Mar

Facing the issues A varied day of insights, inspirations and incitements to action on issues effecting women’s lives. Put your creative head on, bring your wisdom, anger, commitment and sense of fun, and let the crèche and women’s only space give you a chance to think, listen and be heard. Workshops and talks will include the White Ribbon Campaign, Coventry’s Women’s History Group and more; art activities will include t-shirt painting lead by “Health at Every Size”, photography; all this and film screenings, fantastic craft stalls, popmobility and more!

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP, 10.30-3.30pm, free, tel: 024 7629 4752, www.theherbert.org

Sat 14 Mar

Girls’ World Calling all girls aged 11 to 18. Join us for a fun filled day of dance, drama and creative art workshops. What would a country designed and run by young women look like? Join us in a fun filled day and create your own imaginary country. Make up your own dance routine, design your own costumes, and celebrate your national heroine.

St Thomas of Aquins School, Chalmers Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9ES, 10am4pm, free, tel: 0131 225 7592, joan@ywcascotland.org

Female Entrepreneur of the Year; BT Business Essence of the Entrepreneur exhibition, Oxo Tower, London, Now - Sun 1 Mar

Sat 14 Mar

Women and the Archive: A Partial Disclosure Presenting four perspectives on the relationships between women and the archive in contemporary artistic production. Artists and collectives using archives as source material or constituting archives as their primary activity are invited to present their rarely shown collections of photographs, videos and audio recordings around women of artistic, social and political importance. Issues around provenance, methodology, property and historization will be addressed throughout the afternoon and discussed with the contributors and guest speakers in a panel discussion. Presentations, screenings and performances by The Otolith Group, Cinenova, The Remembering Olive Collection and Marysia Lewandowska.

This event has been devised by Anna Colin and Mia Jankowicz for Canal as part of ‘The Street’, a yearlong series of artists commissions by the Whitechapel Gallery on and around Wentworth Street E1.

The Women’s Library, London Metropolitan University, Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NT, 1pm-6pm, free, tel: 0207 320 2222, moreinfo@thewomenslibrary.ac.uk

Sun 15 March

Feelings – the Jean Adebambo Memorial and benefit Concert Eight weeks after her death, Jean Adebambo’s legacy lives on in a tribute charity concert and memorial ceremony to be held at the Hackney Empire on Sunday 15th March 2009. Hosted by Angie Le Mar and Eddie Nestor, the concert at the renowned east London theatre will generate funds for the education and upbringing of the gifted singer’s two teenage daughters. Musical performers scheduled for the event include some of the UK’s biggest stars of the ‘Lovers Rock’ genre such as Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson, Sandra Cross, Sylvia Tella, Lorna Gee, Victor Romero Evans, Vivian Jones and roots group Matumbi. Also on the bill are comedians Donna Spence, Ex-EastEnders actress Judith Jacob and The Real McCoy favourite Robbie Gee. Hackney Empire, 291 Mare Street,

London E8 1EJ. Tickets: £15, £17.50 or £20 for a choice of seats. Doors open at 6.00pm and the performance will begin at 7.00pm ending at 11.00pm.

Sun 15 Mar

In Focus - International Women’s Day See “Sun 8 Mar In Focus International Women’s Day” Tour Point in Foyer, Imperial War Museum North, The Quays, Trafford Wharf, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1TZ, 2.15pm, free, north.iwm.org.uk

Sun 15 Mar

Women Make History Walks See “Sun 8 Mar Women Make History Walks” Glasgow Women’s Library, Second Floor, 81 Parnie Street, Glasgow, G15RH, 10am, free, tel: 0141 552 8345

Sun 15 Mar

Women’s Poetry Night Poetry open mic for women. All women are welcome to read, men are welcome to support us! Contact Val (val.walsh@gmail.com) to register, flexibility on night. Food and bar available. Donation on door.

3345 Club, Parr Street, Liverpool, L1 4AZ, val.walsh@gmail.com, www.iwdmerseyside.co.uk

Tue 17 Mar

Launch of the National Honour Based Violence Practitioner’s Directory & Toolkit Henna Foundation and Cardiff Council, in partnership with Cymdeithas Tai Hafan, Equality & Human Rights Commission, BAWSO, Safer Wales, South Wales Police and Cardiff Women’s Safety Unit, will be hosting a one day conference to launch the Henna Foundation’s Honour Based Violence Practitioner’s Directory & Toolkit.

The conference will raise awareness of the risks and consequences of ‘Honour’ Based Violence (HBV) and Forced Marriage in families, building on and providing a new learning experience from the first conference of this theme last year.

City Hall, Cardiff Civic Centre, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3ND, 9am-4.30pm, free, hbvconference@cardiff.gov.uk

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Brand Identity: Ask the Expert and Networking Event at Stansted Join us to hear from Sally Brazier, founder of CEOSTRA Ltd and Chair of the Designers Network. An expert in marketing and branding Sally will demonstrate the importance of design in business and show some of the benefits that the use of professional design can bring.

Following Sally’s presentation you will have an opportunity to question a panel of experienced women from the Designers’ Network on any aspect of design and its application to business.

New York Room, Endeavour House, Stansted, CM 24 1SJ, free, 11.30am2pm, alison.medlock@entreprisingwomen.org

Wed 18 Mar

CREATE your Future Women in Business Conference Women Unlimited invite you to an event that will allow you to interact with insightful and accomplished women. Take yourself away from your day to day business and learn from some of the top female entrepreneurs in the UK today.

You’ll have the chance to mingle and network with other successful female business owners and create

new relationships that will take your business to the next level.

Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 0PQ, 1-7.30pm, £65/£55 Advance, www.women-unlimited.co.uk/areyou-ready-to-create-your-future

Wed 18 Mar

Fascinating Aida Not a comeback, just a quartercentury birthday celebration! Britain’s top female comedy trio are 25 years old and are ready to party with some great new songs!

Bedford Corn Exchange Main Auditorium, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SL, 7.30pm, £16.50 Concessions available, tel: 01234 269 519, centralboxoffice@bedford.gov.uk, www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Wed 18 Mar

Talk: Two Victorian Woman Artists Sandra Penketh, Head of the Lady Lever Gallery, talks about Helen Allingham and Kate Greenaway: two very different women artists represented in the exhibition “Masterpiece Watercolours and Drawings”.

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP, 12.30-1.30pm, free, tel: 024 7683

Listings

UK Events 2386, www.theherbert.org

£12/10 Concessions, tel: 020 76137498

Thurs 26 Mar

Fri 20 Mar

Becoming Self-Employed Workshop (HMRC) Ipswich See “Mon 9 Mar Becoming SelfEmployed Workshop (HMRC) King’s Lynn” Ipswich, tel: 0845 603 2691, www. hmrc.gov.uk/bst/centraltraining.htm

Thurs 19 Mar

International Women’s Day Event by Bedfordshire Business Women Annually the 8th March is a major day of global celebration for the economic, political and social achievements of women. Political and human rights theme runs strong, and political and social awareness of women worldwide are brought out and shared in a hopeful manner.

BBW seek to share thoughts in business, growth and development.

We will evidence how we as businesswomen manage both our professional and personal lives but most of all we will demonstrate how vital our role is in society.

The Sculpture Gallery, Woburn Abbey, Woburn, Bedfordshire, MK17 9WA, 10am, £35 members £40 non members

Thurs 19 Mar

Newcastle Gliterary Lunch Guest speakers include Jasvinder Sanghera and Woman of the Year 2007 and bestselling writer Justine Picardie.

11 Northern Counties Club, Hood Street, Newcastle, NE1 6LH, 123pm, £50, tel: 01423 873116, www. gliterarylunches.com/event018.htm

Thurs 19 Mar

The Story of Marie Lloyd An Ensemble/York Theatre Royal Co-Production.

Marie Lloyd lives again in this popular celebrated Olivier Award nominated show, which features all her famous songs: ‘Don’t Dilly Dally on the Way’, ‘Oh! Mr Porter’, ‘A Little of What you Fancy does you Good’, and ‘The Boy I Love is Up in the Gallery’. Marie captures all the riotous fun and irrepressible talent, as well as the pain and anguish of a truly remarkable woman. Performed

by Elizabeth Mansfield with Stephen Rose at the piano.

Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, London, E1 6LA, 7.30pm,

Building & Sustaining Research Networks for Women in Science, Engineering & Technology The importance of building collaborative networks to enhance research development, identify funding sources and further your career opportunities cannot be underestimated. This one-day workshop will enable you to: Understand the purpose and benefits of developing research and support networks. Identify and build internal and external networks Explore the potential for setting up women’s network and overcoming the challenges and barriers.

The University of Reading, Whiteknights, PO Box 217, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6AH, 10am-4.30pm, free, tel: 01273 877920, s ehub@vitae.ac.uk

Fri 20 Mar

In Conversation with Jasmine Johnson Birmingham’s writer Jasmine Johnson has come a long way since her first novel Mr Soon Come hit the literary scene with a bang way back in 2001. Since then, she has written and self-published two other sensations: The Devil I Know and The Day Hell Broke Loose, not forgetting the adaptation of her first novel, Mr Soon Come for the stage.

Bring your listening ears and your burning questions, as BBC Presenter Nikki Tappa engages in conversation with this notorious and controversial writer, branded, The Lady With The Passionate Pen. The Drum, 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham, B6 4UU, 7.30pm, £4/£3 Concessions, tel: 0121 333 2444, www.the-drum.org.uk

Fri 20 Mar

Optimising Performance in the Economic Downturn Based on decades of scientific research and delivered by a Business Psychologist this course gives a psychological perspective on how to get the best performance from others.

1) Understanding how your actions impact on the performance of others.

2) Creating a positive, productive working environment.

3) An introduction to Appreciative

Inquiry.

4) Using Emotional Intelligence to provide effective leadership.

5) Inspiring others to maximise their performance.

6) Understanding motivational factors.

7) The psychology of effective feedback.

The Assembly House, Theatre Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1RQ, 9.30am4.30pm, £275, tel: 01603 620 903, admin@peopletonic.com

Sat 21 Mar

Ladies of Country This wonderful show features international singing star from the USA, Billie Jo Spears, who skyrocketed to world fame with her first multi million selling record Blanket On The Ground. Her sultry, bluesy voice earned her a devoted following in both the US and the UK and she has toured here frequently to the delight of her affectionate fans. This is Billie Jo’s first tour to our shores in nearly 15 years.

Grand Opera House York, 4 Cumberland Street, York, YO1 6BA, 7.30pm, £20.00/£22.50, tel: 01904 678711, www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk

21 Mar - 23 May

Intuitive Awareness Course Discover your soul path, see what your life purpose is and who is guiding you, learn how to access your higher self and your own universal wisdom, explore and expand your inner consciousness.

A series of 3 workshops aimed at expanding inner awareness and spiritual perception.

The course will be at Physic, Oakington Therapy Centre which is in Girton, on the North side of Cambridge.

Physic, Oakington Therapy Centre, Girton, Cambridge, CB3 0QH, 1.304.30pm, £100, tel: 07943 365 286, cf.smith@tesco.net

Sun 22 Mar

Women Make History Walks See “Sun 8 Mar Women Make History Walks” Glasgow Women’s Library, Second Floor, 81 Parnie Street, Glasgow, G15RH, 2pm, free, tel: 0141 552 8345

Tue 24 Mar

B2010: Growing sales in a recession

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This constant process is called building the sales pipeline, or “funnel”. Most businesses must put a lot of effort into getting leads into the top of the funnel, warming them to prospects, and closing them as sales.

This should be a continuous process to ensure that cash flow doesn’t come in fits and starts. So building a strong sales pipeline is critical all stages of business, from start-up to growth.

The training session will be delivered

by Bev Hurley, one of the region’s leading female entrepreneurs.

Room 4, St John’s Innovation Centre, Cowley Road, Cambridge, CB4 0WS, 9.30am-4pm, £74.75 for eligible businesses, alison.medlock@ entreprising-women.org

Tue 24 Mar

2009 Muslim Women Power List Celebration Dinner The event will bring successful nominees together with business and political leaders at a celebration dinner hosted by Trevor Phillips, Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission. At the dinner the Commission will honour the members of the inaugural list and Trevor Phillips will reveal three exceptional nominees chosen by the judges for awards.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) today launched the Muslim Women Power List. The Power List is a celebration of Muslim women within the working community in Britain who have already reached the top of their chosen field or are on the fast track to success.

Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Manchester, M3 5LH, www.thelist2009.com, info@thelist2009.com

Wed 25 Mar

The Athena Network Borehamwood and Radlett The Athena Network is a friendly, professional organisation, focusing on business women from diverse industry sectors meeting on a monthly basis over lunch to make new contacts, develop valuable business expertise and explore visionary ideas. Athena groups are committed to welcoming members and visitors in a relaxed, mutually supportive and ethical environment.

The White Horse, London Road, Shenley, Radlett, WD7 9ER, £20 members £25 non-members,

Sally Lindsay, The Vagina Monologues, Grand Opera House York, York, Fri 13 Mar

www.theathenanetwork.com

www.growingdreams.co.uk

Wed 25 Mar

Sat 28 Mar

Social Enterprise - Ask the Expert and Networking Event in Hemel Hempstead Join us to hear from Jacky Bennett, Chief Executive of The Paper Trail, a social enterprising offering a heritage centre, recycled papermaking, schools enterprise, recycling projects and much more.

Jacky will share her expertise in running a social enterprise and cover the following aspects: 1) The transition from charity to social enterprise 2) Finance and the necessity for social enterprises to be profit orientated 3) The benefits of working for and with the community 4) The importance of networking and collaboration.

As Chief Executive, Jacky is responsible for running the two-site centre’s social enterprise business, education and fund-raising activities.

Since joining The Paper Trail in June 2002, over £5 million has been raised to further the Trust’s vision to create a major industrial heritage visitor destination at the Frogmore Paper Mill and former John Dickinson Stationery Company sites.

The event will commence with networking and a tour around the Frogmore Mill, a working Victorian heritage paper mill.

Apsley Paper Trail, Apsley Mills Cottage, London Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 9RL, 11.30am-2pm, free, alison.medlock@enterprisingwomen.org

Wed 25 Mar

Women in Business Network (WIBN) St Neots We are professional business women who want to meet other like-minded business owners/influencers.

Our meetings are successful and good business is passed due to the support and encouragement from our members and visitors alike.

Women love to help other women in a non competitive environment.

WIBN holds structured and effective lunchtime meetings that are completely results focussed yet fun!

Our meetings are supportive and friendly.

Abbotsley Hotel & Golf Club, Eynesbury Hardwicke, St Neots, Cambs, PE19 6XN, 12-2pm, £18

members £22 non members, tel: 0845 868 0933, emily@wibn.co.uk, www.wibn.co.uk

Thurs 26 Mar

Becoming Self-Employed Workshop (HMRC) Norwich See “Mon 9 Mar Becoming SelfEmployed Workshop (HMRC) King’s Lynn” Norwich, tel: 0845 603 2691, www. hmrc.gov.uk/bst/centraltraining.htm

set in ancient Indian times and the early 1990s produced by Phizzical Productions, adapted by Neil Batlett.

Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, London, E1 6LA, 7.30pm, £12/10 Concessions, tel: 0207 613 7498

Fri 27 Mar

Laura Longrigg How to Approach an Agent MBA literary agent Laura Longrigg explains the dos and don’ts of approaching an agent for the first time, and outlines what an agent can do for you – and what they can’t.

Eastside Books, 166 Brick Lane, London, E1 6 RU, 7pm, £10, tel: 020 7247 0216

Counsellor’s Networking Night This is an opportunity for you to promote yourself by face to face networking.

This group is limited to a number of spaces based on a first come first served basis.

We will meet on the last Friday of each month at the same venue, same time: 7.30pm for 2 hours.

37, Friars Street, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2AG, 7.30-9.30pm, £5, tel: 07841 979 450, network@ exploringUcounselling.co.uk, www.exploringUcounselling.co.uk

26 - 27 Mar

Sat 28 Mar

Thurs 26 Mar

The Maids (Le Bonnes) Written by French author Jean Genet in 1947, this play is based on the Papin sisters, Lea and Christine, envious maids to the wealthy, self centered and imperious Madame, who brutally murdered their employer and her daughter in Le Mans, in France, in 1933. Genet intended this play to be performed by male actors but the director of the show is presenting a male cast on Thursday and female cast on Friday.

A stylized, expressionist performance

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The Amazing Women’s Day The day will consist of tools and techniques to help you to strive for more and achieve great things, become unstuck, find time for yourself & to increase your confidence and self esteem. The Amazing Women’s Day 2009 will provide the perfect setting for an inspirational day out.

Stockport County Football Club, Edgley Park, Stockport, SK3 9DD, 10am-4pm, £75, tel: 01695 627255, enquiries@growingdreams.co.uk,

Blowing the Cover A day of talks exploring a variety of topics in the history of women’s magazines.

British Vogue’s response to World War II. British Vogue covered an impressive range of topics during the Second World War, most notably featuring the extraordinary work of war correspondent and photographer Lee Miller. Dr Becky Conekin (London College of Fashion, University of the Arts) discusses how her often witty and sometimes shocking reportage disrupted the pages of Vogue and played a major role in constructing wartime femininity.

The Women’s Library, London Metropolitan University, Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NT, 10am1.30pm, £20/£15 Concessions, tel: 020 7320 2222, moreinfo@thewomenslibrary.ac.uk Women Make History Walks See “Sun 8 Mar Women Make History Walks” Glasgow Women’s Library, Second Floor, 81 Parnie Street, Glasgow, G15RH, 2pm, free, tel: 0141 552 8345

Wed 20 May

10th Asian Women of Achievement Awards Founded and chaired by Indian born author and entrepreneur Pinky Lilani OBE – and held in association with Lloyds TSB – the awards celebrate the contribution that Asian women make to UK’s business, public, cultural, and political sectors.

Now an important event on the Asian community’s calendar, the initiative has come to symbolise multi-cultural Britain.

Previous accolades have been awarded to actresses Shaheen Khan and Nina Wadia, BBC newsreader Mishal Husain and world-leading academic Professor Xiangqian Jang.

Judges includes human rights campaigner Shami Chakrabarti CBE, also an award recipient, Dragons Den star James Caan, actress Meera Syal and Sir Nicholas Young, chief executive of the British Red Cross.

The London Hilton, 22 Park Lane, London, W1K 1BE, 7.15pm, tel: 0207 368 7129, gr2@caspianpublishing.co.uk, www.realbusiness.co.uk/EventSites/

VENUE LIST

Venue List

UK Addresses

The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, London, SW1P 3BU

3345 Club, Parr Street, Liverpool, L1 4AZ

Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP

London Business School, Regents Park,London,NW1 4SA

Abbotsley Hotel & Golf Club, Eynesbury Hardwicke, St Neots, Cambs, PE19 6XN

Clwb Ifor Bach, 11 Womanby Street, Cardiff, CF10 1BR

Guildhall, High Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ

The London Hilton, 22 Park Lane, London, W1K 1BE

CONEL (College of North East London), Tottenham High Road, London, N15 6PP

Harlow Outdoors Centre for Outdoor Learning, Burnt Mill Lane, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2QS

Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Manchester, M3 5LH

Copthorne Hotel Slough Windsor, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 2YE

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP

Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge, CB3 0BU

Apsley Paper Trail, Apsley Mills Cottage, London Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 9RL Argyll College, 5 Lorne Street, Lochgilphead, Argll, PA31 8LU Art Central, Barry Town Hall, King Square, Barry, CF64 4RW The Assembly House, Theatre Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1RQ Barcelo Basingstoke Country Hotel, Hook - Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG27 9JS Barcelo Blackpool Imperial Hotel, North Promenade, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY1 2HB

Cumbernauld Theatre, Kildrum, Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, G67 2BN, Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre, 235A Westferry Road, Millwall Dock, Isle of Dogs, E14 3QS Dora Hall, Dora Street,London, E14 The Drum,144 Potters Lane,Birmingham,B6 4UU,

Beaufort Hotel, 11 Culduthel Road, Inverness, IV2 4AD

Dylan Thomas Centre, Somerset Place, Swansea,SA1 1RR,

Bedford Corn Exchange Main Auditorium, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SL

Eastside Books, 166 Brick Lane,London, E1 6RU,

The Bell, Market Hill, Clare, Suffolk, C10 8NN The Belstead Brook Hotel, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 9HB Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3TR Brady Arts Centre, 192-196 Hanbury Street, London,E1 5HU Brewery Arts Centre, Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4HE The British Postal Museum & Archive, Freeling House, Phoenix Place, London, WC1X 0DL The Broadway Theatre, 46 Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1RT, Broom Hall Country Hotel, Saham Toney, Norfolk, IP25 7EX Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 0PQ Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, CF5 1QE

Emmaus House, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1BN Endeavour House, Stansted, CM 24 1SJ The Events Centre, Cowes Yacht Haven, Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BD Fairfields Art Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 3DH Farnham Maltings, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7QR The Fleet, Italian Community Centre, Fleetway, High St, Fletton,Peterborough, PE2 8DL, Flitwick Manor, Church Road, Flitwick, Beds, MK45 1AE 37 Friars Street, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2AG Glasgow City Chambers, 80 George Square, Glasgow, G2 1DU Glasgow Women’s Library, 81 Parnie Street, Glasgow, G15RH

Chilford Hall, Linton, Cambridgeshire, CB21 4LE

Gloucestershire County Council, Shire Hall, Westgate Street, Gloucestershire, GL1 2TG

City Hall, Cardiff Civic Centre, Cathays Park, Cardiff,CF10 3ND

62-64 Gower Street, London, WC1E 6ED

The Cliff Hotel, Cliff Hill, Gorleston, Gt. Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 6DH

Grand Opera House York,4 Cumberland Street,York,YO1 6BA, The Great Hall, Guildhall, London, EC2

Hilton Hotel, Milton Keynes, Timbold Drive, Milton Keynes, MK7 6HL Holiday Inn Colcesther, Abbotts Lane, Eight Ash Green, Colchester, Essex, CO6 3QL Holiday Inn Garden Court Sandy, Girtford Bridge, London Road, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 1NA The Holland House Hotel, 24-26 Newport Road, Cardiff, CF24 0DD House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA House of Lords, London, SW1A 0PW Hove Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove, BN3 4AH The Hub, Kings Cross, 34b York Way, London,N1 9AB The Human Rights Action Centre, 17-25 New Inn Yard, Shoreditch, EC2A 3EA, Idea Store Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1BU Imperial War Museum North, The Quays, Trafford Wharf, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1TZ The Jam House, 5 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JE Jurys Inn, Wellesley Road, Croydon, South London, CR0 9XY Kilmartin House Museum, Kilmartin, Argyll, PA31 8RQ Laburnum Centre, Lyon Street, Bognor Regis, PO21 1UX The Light House Media Centre, Fryer Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1HT Linc Centre, 70 Fern Street, Bow, London,E3 3PR Little Horwood, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire,MK17 0P The Loft, Cross York Street, Leeds, LS2 7EE

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Manchester City Council, Town Hall, Albert Square, Manchester, M60 2LA Marble Hall, Congress Centre, Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3LS Merkinch Community Centre, Coronation Park, Inverness, IV3 8AD Milgi Lounge, 213 City Road, Roath, Cardiff, CF24 3JD Northwich Library, Witton Street, Northwich, Cheshire,CW9 5DR NUJ HQ, 308 Grays Inn Road, London, WC1X 8DP The Nunnery Gallery, Bow Arts Lane, off Bow Road, London,E3 2SJ

Argyle Street, Glasgow, G2 8DL Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA, The Rivergarden, Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St. Andrew, NR7 0EQ Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ The Chamber of the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP The Sculpture Gallery, Woburn Abbey, Woburn, Bedfordshire, MK17 9WA South East Essex College, Luker Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1ND The Spectrum Centre, 1 Margaret Street, Inverness, IV1 1LS St Faith’s House, Mountergate, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1PY St Hilda’s East Community Centre, 18 Club Row, London,E2 7EY St John’s Innovation Centre, Cowley Road, Cambridge, CB4 0WS St Matthews Centre,10 Malabar Road, Leicester,LE1 2PD

The Oasis Sports and Leisure Club, Pound Lane, Thorpe St. Andrew, NR7 0UB

St Matthias Community Centre, Poplar High Street, London, E14 0AE

The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1AH

St Pancras Room, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London, N1 9AG

Oxford House, 2 Derbyshire Street, Bethnal Green, London,E2 6HG

St Peter’s Church Hall, St Peter’s Street, Roath Cardiff, CF24 3BA

Over the Rainbow, Plas Tyllwyd, Tanygroes, Ceredigion, SA43 2J

St Thomas of Aquins School, Chalmers Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9ES

Park Inn Hotel York, North Street, York, YO1 Park Inn Hotel York, North Street, York, YO1

The Taunton Conference Centre, Somerset College of Arts and Technology Campus, Wellington Road, Taunton, TA1 5AX

Physic, Oakington Therapy Centre, Girton, Cambridge, CB3 0QH

Teacher Building, 14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow, G1 4DB

The Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RP

Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL

The Plough Chapel, Lion Street, Brecon

Tower Hamlets Centre for Mental Health, Ecology Pavilion, Mile End Park, 125 Grove Road, London, E3 5RP

Pride Park Stadium, Derby County Football Club, Pride Park, Derby, Derbyshire, DE24 8XL Queen’s Dock Chambers, Queens Dock Avenue, Hull, East Yorkshire, HU1 3DR Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Hemel Hempstead, AL3 7AF The Radisson SAS Hotel, 301

Tower Hamlets Idea Stores and Tower Hamlets Community Housing, London Town Centre, Bridge Street, Peterborough, PE1 1QT The Tricycle Theatre, 269 Kilburn High Road, London, NW6 7JR

Advertiser List

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ABBOTT Alberto-Culver Appointments Commission Avon Fire and Rescue Service British Association for Women in Policing Edexcel Essex Fire & Rescue Service Financial Ombudsman Service Government Actuary’s Department Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service Hype Coiffure Islington CC Fostering Kent LEA Teach London College of Beauty Therapy Metropolitan Housing Group Metropolitan Police

Go Faster, Prick Your Finger, aims to bring women together through the medium of textiles to produce alternative sportswear, banners, flags and souvenirs inspired by the local community for the 2012 Olympics, Tower Hamlets Idea Stores, London, 3, 4, 5, 6 Mar

Welsh Assembley Government RAF SGOSS Thurrock Council Fostering UKRC VOA

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*

RESPONSE CARD

Please cut out and tick boxes from organisations you would like more information about q ABBOTT q Alberto-Culver qA ppointments Commission q Avon Fire and Rescue Service qB ritish Association for Women in Policing q Edexcel q Essex Fire & Rescue Service q Financial Ombudsman Service qG overnment Actuary’s Department qG reater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service

q Hype Coiffure q Islington CC Fostering q Kent LEA Teach q London College of Beauty Therapy q Metropolitan Housing Group q Metropolitan Police q Welsh Assembly Government q RAF q SGOSS q Thurrock Council Fostering q UKRC q VOA

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Volunteer Police Officers 16 hours a month – London Whether your job involves mixing tracks, drinks or cement, there’s no more rewarding way to spend your free time than as a Special Constable with the Met. Volunteering just 16 hours a month, you’ll get all the training and support you need to become a Volunteer Police Officer with the same powers and uniform as a regular Police Officer. What’s more, you’ll make a real difference to your London, while gaining unique skills and experiences you simply can't get anywhere else.

Download an application form today at www.metpolicecareers.co.uk/specials Text SPECIAL122 to 84880 for an application form or call 0845 727 2212 Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, quoting ref: 837/08 for more information.

Whatever you do, do this.