A Transformative Vision for Women’s Financial Independence

At WRC’s 2024 Currency of Change Leadership Conference, we convened over 150 women from across the UK to address the systemic barriers to women’s economic independence. This collaborative space highlighted the urgent need for radical economic solutions.

A key theme was how capitalism and colonial legacies continue to exploit and marginalise women, particularly Black and minoritised women. Our panelists, including Rose Ssali (SAWN), Rosie Lewis (Project Resist), and Carrina Gaffney (Lankelly Chase), championed regenerative economies as an alternative to extractive financial systems. They emphasised how solidarity and community organising are essential to dismantling oppressive systems.

Bold structural change is needed to dismantle the systemic barriers to women’s financial independence. That’s why WRC calls for establishing a National Women’s Fund—a permanent endowment dedicated to funding grassroots women’s organisations and advancing gender equality.

The urgency is apparent: Just 2% of UK voluntary sector funding is currently allocated to women’s organisations (Rosa, 2023). Women’s organisations are lifelines for thousands, providing vital services and advocating for justice in an increasingly unequal society.

By signing the petition, you’re joining a movement prioritising long-term investment in women and women’s organisations. Adding your name to the petition will help push for the change needed to ensure financial independence, empowerment, and equality for all women.

Echoing Gina Miller’s Call to Action for Financial Freedom

A recent study by activist and businesswoman Gina Miller amplifies these conversations, urging women to invest in their financial independence. Her MoneyShe research reveals that one in three women feels trapped due to financial dependence. It also highlights an alarming "gender pension gap" when investing for the future, which averages £136,000 in the UK. Miller’s advocacy aligns with WRC’s call for bold economic action, particularly for Black and minoritised women, who are disproportionately affected by poverty and exclusion.

In addition, the annual Scottish Widows Women and Retirement report warns of a “very real risk” that pension parity will remain out of reach for generations. It reveals that women are set to retire with just £12,000 a year after tax and housing costs, far below the £14,400 minimum recommended income and men’s £17,000.

Miller’s concept of a "freedom fund" echoes the ethos of the discussions at our conference. Underscoring that financial autonomy isn’t just a safeguard—it’s a foundation for empowerment.

Why This Matters Now

WRC invites activists, funders, and policymakers to join this critical movement. We need to amplify solutions like ringfenced funds and Miller’s investment strategies to build a future where women are free from financial coercion and systemic inequality.

We call on all stakeholders to champion financial independence as central to women's equality. We can create a society where women thrive through innovative funding models and collective solidarity.

Sign the Petition