Written by Nicola Roberts, Senior Social Impact Manager at British Land

In recognition of this year’s International Women's Day (IWD) theme "Accelerating Action for Gender Equality," we joined forces with grassroots organisations local to our campuses, Broadgate, Paddington Central, and Regent's Place. Our programme of events and activities focussed on connecting our customers with these organisations to raise awareness about their important work, while creating meaningful networking opportunities for women at our places.

Across the campus we held various activities, including:

• ‘Innovating for Equity in Women’s Health’ Panel Discussion at Regent’s Place: In collaboration with Impact Hub and Overbury, this panel featured founders from Period Reality and Alma Angels, alongside the director of Camden-based Women + Health Charity. The discussion addressed the urgent need for change in women's healthcare, advocating for more research, investment, and a fundamental shift in approaches.
• Tea and talk: A cross-generational networking event with women from The Third Age Project, a grassroots charity supporting older Camden residents. Hosted at the Good Company, the event featured delicious treats from Luminary Bakery, a social enterprise empowering London’s most disadvantaged women.
• Pop-up markets: In alignment with our commitment to employment and supporting local businesses, we teamed up with Rebel Business School to host pop-up markets for their female alumni across Broadgate receptions.
• An IWD theme coffee morning : Held at our Broadgate campus, this event provided an opportunity for professionals to exchange ideas and create new connections.
• Workwear clothing drive: In partnership with SmartWorks, we organised a clothing drive at Paddington Central. SmartWorks helps unemployed women gain the coaching, clothing, and confidence they need to secure employment and transform their lives.

Our place-based approach to social impact ensures the creation and delivery of mutually beneficial opportunities across our campuses. By fostering meaningful conversations, facilitating knowledge sharing, and providing safe spaces, we drive transformative change, together. For International Women’s Day, we’d also like to highlight some of the fantastic organisations we work with year-round that are driving progress:

• Women’s Inclusive Team: A Tower Hamlets charity creating a community where Black and ethnic minority women feel happy, safe, and valued.
• Hopscotch Women’s Centre: A Camden-based organization offering a range of support services that empower, connect, and ensure the safety and well-being of women, enabling them to reach their full potential.
• Middle Eastern Women & Society Organisation (MEWSO): Supporting vulnerable women in rebuilding their lives, in and around Westminster.

Thank you to everyone who participated in our International Women’s Day events, and to the dedicated individuals, charities, organisations, and businesses striving for a more equitable future.