International Women’s Day: ‘Genuine progress happens when allyship and inclusion are lived values’

Andrew Brown
4 Min Read
Birkdale Insurance Group Managing Director Caroline Munnelly

Birkdale Insurance Group Managing Director Caroline Munnelly has shared how “genuine progress happens when allyship and inclusion are lived values” ahead of this year’s International Women’s Day. 

Local people and local businesses are once again coming together to celebrate International Women’s Day, with an event organised by Queenscourt Hospice taking place at the Grand in Southport on Friday 6th March 2026. 

Among them will be a table of colleagues from Birkdale Insurance Group, which has its head office on Hoghton Street in Southport town centre in addition to centres in Nantwich, Shrewsbury, Hawarden and Brighton. 

Birkdale Insurance Group Managing Director Caroline Munnelly said: 

“International Women’s Day holds deep significance for me, both personally and as a business leader. 

“Early in my insurance career, I was frequently the only woman in the room – a reflection of just how male-dominated our sector has been. Those experiences shaped my conviction that representation matters.

“Today, I’m privileged to work as Managing Director alongside a CEO who actively empowers and champions my voice. It’s reinforced my belief that genuine progress happens when allyship and inclusion are lived values, not simply stated ones.

“We celebrate International Women’s Day to recognise the women driving our business forward and to encourage more women to see insurance as a place where they can truly thrive, lead, and make their voices heard.” 

Birkdale Insurance Group Managing Director Caroline Munnelly

At Queenscourt Hospice, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to pause and come together to reflect on the strength, generosity and determination of the women who shape our community every single day. 

On Friday 6th March 2026, Queenscourt is hosting its International Women’s Day Celebration at The Grand, on Lord Street in Southport, with more tickets and more details available here: International Women’s Day Celebration – Queenscourt Hospice.

The event is ideal for professionals, business leaders, community champions and anyone passionate about equality, collaboration and making a positive local impact. 

This year’s global theme is ‘Give to Gain’.

Birkdale Insurance Group Managing Director Caroline Munnelly

The event this year, sponsored by Churcher Estates, will feature a panel of inspiring local leaders who each bring a unique perspective on collaboration and community.

Liz Hartley, Fundraising Manager at Queenscourt Hospice, said: 

“After the success of last year’s event, we’re excited to be bringing people together again for a celebration that’s inclusive, uplifting and rooted in community.

“‘Give to Gain’ reflects the generosity we see every day at Queenscourt and we hope this year’s event inspires meaningful conversations and lasting connections.”

Birkdale Insurance Group Managing Director Caroline Munnelly

Tickets include a welcome drink and a two-course meal, making it a relaxed and enjoyable way to network, reflect and celebrate together in the elegant surroundings of The Grand. 

Priced at £50 per person or £500 for a table of 10, it is a perfect opportunity to attend with colleagues, friends or clients. Every ticket purchased helps support the vital care Queenscourt Hospice provides to patients and families across our community.

You can find full event details and book your place here:
https://www.queenscourt.org.uk/support-us/shop/online-shop/international-womens-day-celebration/

If you or your organisation would like to be involved, please contact Alex Hegarty or Liz Hartley at fundraising@queenscourt.org.uk or call the team on 01704 517420.


Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown or email: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com  

Share This Article
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply