Henry Smith Foundation awards multi-year funding to the NWJC

Over the last four years, the National Women’s Justice Coalition has been working with our partners from across the country to build the national infrastructure our sector needs – from stronger consultative structures to clearer evidence pathways and more coordinated influencing. This new investment from the Henry Smith Foundation marks an important milestone in that journey and will enable us to accelerate the work we are undertaking together.

This multi‑year investment will strengthen the coalition’s operational capacity and sustainability, and support our strategic work to:

• Establish sector‑wide consultative and expert frameworks that amplify specialist insight and shape national justice policy.
• Embed participation, equity and lived experience leadership across our governance and influencing activities.
• Deliver major infrastructure enhancements that increase national understanding of the value and importance of women’s centres and specialist women’s services.

This funding represents a significant commitment to the women’s justice sector. It will enable NWJC Partners, our National Voice & Advisory Panel, and specialist organisations across the country to contribute to stronger, more equitable systems for women in contact with the criminal justice system.

Abbi Ayers, NWJC’s Director of Strategic Development, said:

“This investment gives the coalition the stability and capacity we need to deliver the infrastructure our sector has been calling for. It means we can build and strengthen the national frameworks, evidence base and leadership pathways that support women’s centres and specialist services, and ensure expert voices shape justice policy. We’re very grateful to the Henry Smith Foundation for recognising the importance of this work and supporting the coalition’s long‑term vision.“