tWHISC was established in 1984 by a mixed group of women in the Vauxhall area of North Liverpool. They wanted better access to health information. So they attended a Women’s Health Course to find out more about their own health and bodies, especially in areas such as PMT and the menopause.

The course eventually moved from Vauxhall to Shorefield Annex, Aigburth Road and, with money from the Council, a women’s mobile health bus was established. The meetings were held every Sunday, as that was the only available day for all to attend because of the pressures of family and work. They hoped to pass on their skills and knowledge so that more women could increase the control they have over their own health.

A city-centre base was sought and the Family Planning Clinic on Bold Street offered to provide WHISC with a room one day a week and, from there, the ‘Drop-In’ began.

In 1991, WHISC relocated to 95a Mount Pleasant, where money from fundraising allowed them to refurbish a “betting shop” into a drop-in. In 1994, due to an increasing number of clients and volunteers, the premises became too small and finally, after a frantic fundraising exercise, WHISC settled at 120 Bold Street. After 30 years at Bold Street, we moved to Tithebarn Street. We are about to move into a new city centre base – details to be announced soon!

We support women’s mental health and wellbeing, through the provision of support services, complementary therapies, self-help, exercise classes and health education. We empower all women with information, free support and activities that combat isolation and support wellbeing.

We believe all women should be respected, and girls should grow up with high self-esteem. No one should experience barriers to getting the information, support and care they need for them to achieve optimum health. Our Drop-In provides women with a menu of services which they can engage with and our outreach activities builds links with communities throughout Merseyside.