NCYW – Under 18
Supporting the next generation of campaigners
We warmly welcome you to the National Council of Young Women (NCYW), the section of NCW dedicated to supporting the next generation of campaigners for gender equality and human rights. We are passionate about celebrating and sharing youth voices to promote change by raising awareness of current global issues from period poverty to violence against women and girls.
NCYW is committed to promoting the values of the National Council of Women, who work with the highest levels of Government to eradicate discrimination and inequality in all parts of society. NCYW opinions are valued and considered when debating resolutions to take forward to Government, enabling young people to make a real contribution to improving society.
A growing network of schools and colleges benefit from our regular newsletters and resources, as well as opportunities to take part in national surveys, multi-school seminars and our Annual Conference. Our network links schools across the country, creating a space for like-minded people to get to know each other and instigate change together.
We encourage anyone with an interest in gender equality, no matter how big or small, to get involved. We would love to hear your views! Take a look at what one of our schools did for International Women’s Day here.
“I was introduced to NCYW after studying feminism in Politics and co-running my school’s FemSoc. I’ve since attended the NCW’s Annual Conference, which was fascinating, lobbied for children’s rights with Amnesty International and attended the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women.”
Cliona, 20
NCYW school seminar programme
Participating schools are welcome to join our seminars covering issues such as:
- Work/life balance
- Citizenship ““ How local and national Government work, the role of NGOs and how you can make a contribution to society
- Women in decision making ““ Women’s participation in decision making, from business to national Government
- Sexual stereotyping ““ The effects of gender, diversity and culture on women’s lives and the portrayal of young women in the media
- Violence against women and girls
- The rights of women and girls as agreed in UN declarations.
And don’t forget that if you’re going to university, starting an apprenticeship, taking a gap year, or going into work, you can stay in contact through NCW as a full member and as part of the Network 18-30.
For more information about our NCYW programme or joining our network, either as an individual or school, please download our free student changemakers resource booklet (below) or you can contact us.
Student changemakers
Our amazing young NCW members have written a guide to give you the knowledge and inspiration to turn your passion for equality into change-making activities. The booklet explains key topics like body positivity, period poverty and FGM, and shows you how to set up a NCYW group, start challenging and making a difference.
It’s designed to be a springboard for discussion, raising awareness, and engaging in action to improve society.
“I joined NCYW in sixth form as a co-leader of my school’s FemSoc. Since joining, I’ve been involved in the Annual Conference and the cross-school seminars. After leaving school I joined NCW 18-30 and participated in the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women which has definitely been the highlight of my experience so far!”
Anna, 19
News Updates
NCYW celebrate IWD
International Women's Day 2025 was recognised by students who participate in our NCYW programme, and some have shared their contributions with us. Nottingham High School focussed on how peer support can help girls to become leaders and accelerate change, by creating...
Back to the Future
In recent years NCWGB has increasingly worked with young women via online platforms, however, our younger members have stressed the importance of face-to-face support and companionship. This has inspired us to establish new work based in specific communities. We are...
Funding to allow NCW to engage more young women
NCW are delighted to have received funding to improve our engagement with women aged 16 to 30.
Our very own Barbara Maddison, honorary Vice-President receives an MBE for her services to young women.
Barbara is a 91-year-old former headteacher from Bulwell who since her retirement has been incredibly active with NCWGB…
Amy’s message – International Day of the Girl Child 2022
Become a member
Join a network of people who care about the lives of all women.
NCW in action
Our latest resolutions tackle overseas poverty, climate change, and innovation.
