Bec’s Journey with FTWW

I have worked closely with Fair Treatment for the Women of Wales across two professional roles over the past four years, and throughout that time I have consistently found them to be an exceptionally thoughtful, compassionate, and inclusive organisation. I have helped contribute to the Women’s Health Plan, championed by FTWW. I have also been part of the Women’s Health Alliance and subsequent groups such as the PROMs task and finish group.

What sets FTWW apart is not only that they try to accommodate women’s needs, or that they do their best within the limits of their resources. Rather, making women feel welcome, valued, seen, and heard sits at the very heart of everything they do. It is a mission that is evident in every interaction and reflected by everyone involved in the organisation.

Having contributed to FTWW’s work both professionally and as a volunteer, including involvement in discussions around the Women’s Health Plan, I have seen first-hand the depth of their commitment to improving women’s health and experiences. Their whole-system approach to women’s health is truly remarkable and underpinned by a genuine care for the women they support. That commitment is both obvious and inspiring.

Working in an area which is not traditionally included within women’s health, I can say first hand that FTWW bring a holistic approach that should be replicated. Women’s health relates to the whole body and our experiences are shaped by our womanhood whether we are being treated for our reproductive health or for our respiratory health.

As a late-diagnosed autistic woman, I know how isolating it can feel to navigate spaces that are not designed with neurodivergent people in mind. FTWW is different. They actively create an environment where women who are different (whether through neurodiversity, disability, chronic illness, or other circumstances) feel welcomed, included, and respected. I have never felt that FTWW’s work was not for me, which is a rare and powerful experience. Having contributed to forums (such as via social media) and research projects about ND women through FTWW has helped cement that these are spaces I can show up in fully.

Perhaps most importantly, FTWW validates women’s concerns in a way that is too often missing from healthcare experiences. They understand that women need to be listened to, included, and treated with dignity, without being made to feel “othered” or less worthy because of circumstances beyond their control.

Being part of the FTWW community has helped me feel accepted, understood, and empowered. It has given me the confidence to recognise that I am entitled to fair treatment and that my experiences matter. For many women, that sense of validation can be truly life-changing, and FTWW provides it in abundance.