The Isle of Wight has been marking International Women's Day today (Tuesday, March 8).

The global day celebrates achievements of women.

This year, the theme this year is 'Break the Bias.'

The Isle of Wight Council, National Trust and hospital are all acknowledging the role women play in their organisations.

How the Isle of Wight marking International Women's Day

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has become the first NHS Trust in England to sign up to the Employee Domestic Abuse Covenant (EDAC), aimed at supporting and empowering survivors of domestic abuse to enter or re-enter the workplace.

By signing up, the Trust will work towards ensuring the opportunities are in place for domestic abuse victims and survivors who are applying for new roles. The Trust will also work towards creating inclusive workplace opportunities, mentoring schemes and act as a champion to break the taboos surrounding victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

Julie Pennycook, Director for People and Organisational Development said: "As one of the Island’s largest employers and with a female workforce of over 74 per cent this is an important milestone for our organisation to support our community and our staff better."

Isle of Wight County Press: Leading Island women gather at County Hall in Newport.Leading Island women gather at County Hall in Newport.

At County Hall in Newport, prominent Isle of Wight women have been marking the day with a gathering the home of the Isle of Wight Council.

Among them were leader Cllr Lora Peacey-Wilcox, children's education, skills and services lead Cllr Debbie Andre, vice chair Councillor Claire Critchison and East Cowes Mayor Cllr Tracy Reardon.

The National Trust on the Isle of Wight is marking the day by remembering the notable Islanders who helped write our history.

Among those getting a namecheck are: Victorian Frances Tull, who took charge of Bembridge after the death of her husband; archaeologist Jacquetta Hawkes, who uncovered the mysteries of Mottistone's Longstone; and Lady Vivian Nicholson, who shaped Mottistone House gardens, now a tourist attraction. 

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  • Find the rest of the day's news at the Isle of Wight County Press.