Celebrating connections at WAY’s 2026 AGM in Cambridgeshire

September 2026

More than 120 WAY members came together in Cambridgeshire this month for the charity’s annual gathering (AGM) and dinner dance.

There was a real buzz in the air as WAY members from across the country came together for our 2026 Annual Gathering (AGM) and dinner dance near Cambridge earlier this month.

With more than 120 members attending, the annual event brings members together for our biggest annual gathering: a chance to catch up with familiar faces, meet fellow members for the first time and, for many, make connections that will last well beyond the weekend.

And while the business part of the AGM itself is an important part of the weekend (and a requirement from the Charities Commission), there was plenty going on outside the formal programme too.

Members were able to choose from a wonderfully varied programme of breakout sessions designed to encourage creativity, conversations and relaxation. There was a craft session using wild flowers, laughter yoga, wine and cheese tasting. and the wonderfully calming experience of sound bathing, as well as a session run by WAY member and nutritionist Sabine Horner.

For those looking to simply spend time together, there were plenty of opportunities to chat, share experiences and enjoy the company of other WAY members. Life coach Katie Sinclair also encouraged members to step outside their usual circles and make new connections – something that seemed to happen naturally throughout the weekend.

The ever-popular Saturday evening dinner dance gave everyone the chance to get dressed up, let their hair down and celebrate together. After a packed day, the dance floor provided the perfect excuse to keep the conversations, laughter and friendships going well into the evening.

For some members, the weekend continued into Sunday with a more leisurely pace. More than 25 people joined a sunny walk along the River Cam in Grantchester, enjoying some fresh air, beautiful surroundings and – naturally – plenty more conversation along the way.

“A fantastic weekend of fun, friends, support and laughter”

Reflecting on the weekend, WAY’s Chief Executive Stephanie Patrick said:

“The AGM is a really special opportunity for everyone to spend time together, make new friends and build connections. Almost 40% of those attending were coming along to the AGM for the first time. It was fantastic to see so many people getting involved, joining conversations and quickly becoming part of the WAY community. It really was a fantastic event.”

Three of our lovely members shared these reflections:

“I went to my first WAY AGM in Cambridge this weekend,” said Welsh WAY member Rebecca. “Honestly there is something so refreshing and healing being in a room with 100+ other widows. We all had the absolute best time - good food, drinks and amazing company. I chatted to some lovely people, met some of the WAY members I’d chatted to online and danced the night away with them all. 

It’s not a club any of us ever wanted to be in but it’s one of the best clubs for anyone who’s been widowed young. Being surrounded by others who get it, who know why you’re there and don’t judge that you’re up dancing and enjoying yourself is such a nice place to be. This charity is an amazing lifeline and I’m so grateful to have found it and made lifelong friends.” 

“Finding light in the darkness is so important and it was shining brightly in Cambridge this weekend,” said Jamila. “It was great catching up with friends and making new ones. Roll on next year’s AGM!”

“Finding light in the darkness is so important and it was shining brightly in Cambridge this weekend,” said Jamila. “It was great catching up with friends and making new ones. Roll on next year’s AGM!”

Appointment of Charity Trustees

Since its inception as a membership charity in 1997, WAY holds our Annual General Meetings (AGMs) in different locations around the UK. This allows WAY members to attend and get involved with the charity’s decision-making, as well as enjoying the social side that follows.

AGMs are not only important from a governance perspective, but they also provide a platform for WAY members to share their views and ask questions to ensure transparency. This helps to make sure that the charity is being run in the best interest of its members. 

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At each AGM, WAY trustees retire from office when they have served a three-year term of office. They may stand for re-election and can serve for up to nine years. 

The 2026 AGM marked several updates to WAY’s Board of Trustees:

• Louise Fisher retired through rotation but was reappointed by members for another three-year term.
• Bobby Kelly and Sarah Bowsher formally resigned from the Board of Trustees.

The WAY Board currently has vacancies and is particularly keen to hear from people with experience of Finance and Legal Skills. They are also seeking new trustees from Wales, Northern Ireland and BAME communities.