Women's rights group remains essential 75 years on

Jersey Women’s Rights Group Marks 75 Years, Says Its Work Is “Far From Over”

The head of one of Jersey’s longest-standing women’s rights organisations says the island continues to face serious challenges around violence against women and girls, making the group’s mission as vital as ever.

Soroptimist International Jersey, founded in 1950, marked its 75th anniversary on Wednesday. Despite decades of advocacy, its president Debbie Taylor said many of the issues that first inspired the organisation remain pressing today.

Taylor acknowledged the island had taken positive steps toward gender equality but noted that the island’s women’s refuge “is still as busy as ever.”

“There is still a very real need for a dedicated women’s group in Jersey, particularly with the rise in misogynistic attitudes,” she said. “It’s deeply disappointing that the refuge remains so heavily used—it shows how far we still have to go in tackling violence against women.”

The comments come a year after the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) taskforce, led by Kate Wright, issued 77 recommendations aimed at improving protections and reducing gender-based violence. A recent report indicated that progress on those proposals is under way.

Taylor, who joined the Soroptimists in 2022, welcomed the government’s efforts. “The fact that the VAWG recommendations are being implemented is a real positive,” she said. “But it is unfortunate that such extensive measures are even necessary.”

The Jersey branch of Soroptimist International was originally established by two women who had previously volunteered with the organisation in the UK. Membership has varied over the decades, reaching a high of 40. After a dip in 2022, membership now stands at 31.

Taylor believes modern pressures may be discouraging some women from joining. “It’s a double-edged sword,” she explained. “Women want independence and careers, but that also means juggling childcare and everything else. It can feel overwhelming, and I worry that might put potential members off.”

Despite these challenges, Taylor said the group remains committed to its founding mission: promoting equality, advocating for women’s rights, and supporting those in crisis.