Welcome to the Home page for the West Lothian Federation of the Scottish Women's Rural Institutes.

West Lothian Federation recently celebrated its 70th birthday. 

Over the 70 years the Federation grew to twenty one institutes throughout West Lothian, with a membership of approximately 700 women.

Unfortunately, due to a variety of reasons, it was necessary for three of the institutes to close their door. So, the Federation is now host to eighteen institutes across the length and breadth of the county.

Each institute meets regularly to promote the preservation of Scotland's traditions and it's rural heritage, to learn new skills that encompass today's changing technology and to meet people and have fun in arelaxed and friendly environment.

To visit the Scottish Women's Institutes National website click here.

Each institute is responsible for creating its own schedule for the year. This means that there are a great many different activities happening throughout West Lothian.

In the past many members have enjoyed going on outings,  listening to visiting speakers, participating in silent auctions, beetle drives or games evenings. They have watched floral, craft or cookery demonstrations, listened to musical renditions from choirs, bands or bell ringers. They have learned to bowl, curl or play golf. They have participated in craft classes, competitions and some have even become committee members, to name but a few of the experiences offered.

West Lothian Federation try to help those in need through community projects. Recent donations from members have been heart shaped cushions for breast cancer patients and knitting for the premature baby unit in the local hospital.

Over 170 cot blankets were knitted and donated by the ladies of West Lothian. They also made drain bags, pouches and baby clothes for St John's Hospital in Livingston.

In the 2007/2008 session the members are being asked to support C.H.A.S. by knitting, crocheting or sewing knee blankets and by knitting clothes, in pastel colours, for children up to two years of age to be sold in their shops to raise funds.

Every year West Lothian hold an International Evening where members learn about the cultures, cuisine, music and skills from a chosen country.

In 2007 the chosen country was Poland. Members were delighted to learn about  customs, culture and food from Poland in an entertaining talk given by two local Polish ladies.

The sour soup, beetroot soup, sausages, cheese, herring and the strawberry flavoured crisps were sampled by many.