Frequently Asked Questions

We are happy to answer queries or offer advice and help. Email us or phone Samantha or Angela on 0845 4500287 or 01603 406767 during office hours.

How do I join NWR? There seems to be a group near me but I don't know how to contact them?

Have a look at the Find a Group section and then contact the office in Norwich by email: ofice@nwr.org.uk or phone on: 0845 450 0287 or 01603 406767 during office hours. Or you could send your details to the office using the online form. Samantha or Angela will write to you with the contact details of your three nearest groups.

Can I start a new NWR group in my town?

Yes of course. There is a New Group Pack available from the Office, and NWR's Membership Co-ordinator will guide and help you to establish your group. Good Luck!

Some years ago I belonged to the National Housewives Register, is this the same organisation?

Yes it is. We changed our name to the National Women's Register in 1987. See the history section for further details.

What are subscriptions used for?

• 5 dedicated paid staff members: 2 Coordinators, a Financial Manager, 2 Office Administrators
• Regular meetings between the 5 Trustees, the Coordinators and the Financial Manager
• NWR Office in Norwich
• Website: www.nwr.org.uk with ‘A Members’ only section which provides useful forms, handbooks, quizzes and advice in a downloadable format.
• 2 magazines The Register and 2 Newsletters a year mailed to all members
• Handbooks – Local Organiser, Area Organiser, Events
• Advice and support packs – Programme, Press and Publicity
• Help and advice in setting up and running conferences or workshops
• Research Bank of resources for meetings
• Publicity material to attract new members
• Coordinator visits and talks
• Insurance for NWR meetings and events
• Researched resource packs for themed evenings and annual themes

• Group meetings: usually fortnightly, during the evening or the daytime, including discussions, speakers, visits
• Possible sub-groups: Book, Walking, Supper, Theatre
• Opportunity to join a Special Group: Penfriend Scheme, Postal Book Group, Correspondence Magazines
• Instant contacts when you move to a new area
• Annual Telephone Treasure Trail
• National debates
• Local quizzes
• Area meetings
• Day Conferences, Workshops, Discussion Lunches
• Annual National Conference which always involves a full programme of interesting speakers and workshops

Is there a joining fee for new members?

No, there is no joining fee. The current annual membership fee is £17. Newcomers are welcome to attend 3 meetings for FREE before committing to join and paying subs either in full or pro rata

Is there a reduced subscription for unemployed or retired women?

No. We consider a small annual subscription paid by all members which allows them full advantage of what NWR has to offer is the most advantageous system - any other system would require far more administration and therefore increase costs meaning full paying members would have to even pay more! Groups can collect subscriptions by whatever method suits them as long as the full amount is sent to the Office by the renewal date.

What is Gift Aid?

Gift Aid helps us to keep subscription increases down by allowing us to reclaim tax on subscriptions paid to us. If you are a taxpayer, you can fill in the form. You can cancel at any time by notifying NWR.

Why do you need my name, address and postcode?

NWR has to comply with the Data Protection legislation both as a Charity and as a Company Limited by Guarantee. It is a legal requirement that an up to date membership list is maintained. The Accountants also check payment of subscriptions as part of their annual audit. It is also necessary for NWR's insurance cover, for mailing the Magazine and for those members claiming the Workshop subsidy, attending the AGM and National Conference or joining a Special Group.

Will my personal details remain confidential? Do you "sell" it to third parties for mailshots?

YES they will remain completely confidential and NO, Under no circumstances is our membership list divulged to anyone outside the organisation. Our registration under the Data Protection Act guarantees this. Very rarely a paid mailing (to Local Organisers) may be accepted as it provides useful extra income. The address labels are attached to the items in the NWR office.

What is happening nationally? How will I be kept up to date?

This website is the best place to find out about news and events! We also keep members informed with the Newsletter and our magazine, The Register both of which are sent to all members. Local Organisers also receive a copy of the audited accounts, the AGM agenda and Annual Report.

Do you sell NWR merchandise?

Yes, these are available from the office as well as at conferences.