With this year’s theme being “Accelerate Action”, we are showcasing some of our incredible volunteers who are taking action in their role as a Student Volunteer with the Scottish Women’s Rights Centre. We hope by sharing the experiences of our volunteers you are inspired to take action this International Women’s Day to further gender equality. You can hear from those volunteers below:

“As student volunteers at the SWRC we witness that the law too often fails to protect women from gender-based violence and creates a society where women having equal opportunities seems almost unimaginable. The rights of women need protection and advocacy now more than ever, whether that be due to dangerous misogynistic beliefs growing amongst younger males, or the legal aid crisis denying women access to justice. 

On this year’s International Women’s Day, it is therefore crucial to work together to Accelerate Action towards achieving Gender Equality. This can take the shape of sharing resources from groups like the SWRC to those you think may need it or taking the time to educate yourself on issues of gender inequality that continue to affect every women in our society. By doing this we can speed up change that women require to live free from harm.”

Heather Dickson (SWRC Coordinator)

“The work done by the SWRC to advocate for women experiencing gender-based violence is hugely important, and volunteering with the SWRC team has been a highlight of my work at the Clinic. It is incredibly empowering to have the opportunity to contribute to the work they do and to see the bigger picture of the impact of our research. I am proud to be involved in helping women navigate this complex and challenging area of law.”

Hannah Stewart

“International Women’s Day is more than just a celebration, it’s a call to action. It reminds us of the incredible progress made toward gender equality while also shining a light on the injustices that persist, particularly the devastating impact of gender-based violence. Too many women still face barriers to safety, justice, and independence, and it is our collective responsibility to challenge these inequalities. Working with the SWRC has been an eye-opening and deeply personal experience. It reinforced my belief that legal advocacy is not just about the law, it is about giving women the power to reclaim their lives.  

Days like IWD remind me why I chose this path. They remind us all that change is possible and necessary. When we stand up, speak out, and support one another, we move one step closer to a world where no woman has to live in fear, and every woman has the opportunity to thrive.”

Tharana Arun

“I’m incredibly proud to be a volunteer at the SWRC! Being part of an organisation that supports women and girls facing challenges and barriers to justice across Scotland is powerful! My experience as a volunteer has not only deepened my passion for this cause but has also inspired me to spark more conversations with others about critical issues. I believe that by raising awareness and speaking openly, we can work towards a more supportive and inclusive society.”

Mia Presslie

“The Law has the power to transform lives- but too often, women still face significant challenges in accessing justice. Volunteering with the SWRC has been an eye-opening experience, showing me firsthand the barriers women encounter in the legal system. It has been incredibly inspiring to continue to advocate for change in Scotland. 

On this International Women’s Day, I am reflecting and celebrating the strength and resilience of women and around the world.”

Morgan Francis

• 

• 

• 

• 

•