A new group is about to launch in Orkney

Maggie Heinemann, who offered one-to-one sewing classes in Kirkwall, came up with the idea of Orkney Women’s Hub. She was struggling to find affordable premises to offer free group lessons. Maggie commented to her friend Lorraine Craigie that, if there was somewhere for a regular meeting, the attendees could support each other; learn together.

The idea grew – what else would women like to learn about, try, or share? They set up a group on Facebook and asked the question… Soon Orkney Women’s Hub had more than three hundred members, and a book club grew out of those initial connections. Aware that not everyone uses social media, the pair arranged a group meeting in Kirkwall in August and agreed on a direction for the group. An initial committee volunteered to help, and several meetings have since taken place.

What has happened since then?

The group are working on the constitution so that they can  apply for charity status.

The goal is to have premises; somewhere where women can drop in and be sure of a welcome any time.

“Each of us is more than just a wife, mum, daughter, sister and neighbour. But we are all these things too. Each of us has experienced isolation, sadness, loneliness or loss. We can be there for each other in the future too.”

Orkney Women’s Hub will be the centre that brings together strangers with common interests, and ladies with skills they are happy to share.

Coffee Morning

On Saturday 28^th September 2019 the group have a coffee morning from 10am to noon at the King Street Halls. There will be tea, coffee, home bakes and fundraising activities, such as a raffle.

Also plenty of members will be on hand; happy to talk about the group and what they are  doing.

Up to  win is this stunning collector’s item bear. She’s handstitched in German Steiff mohair and fully jointed. One of a kind and kindly donated by Michele Nichols.

Guess the bear’s name and you can take her home!