A new impact report by Rosa, the UK Fund for Women and Girls, has detailed the work carried out through the Justice and Equality Fund, which was launched in 2018 following the global #MeToo movement. Published on March 5, 2025, the initiative reached 46,100 women and girls, trained more than 20,000 professionals and distributed nearly £2.54 million through 59 grants, according to the same report. More than 400 donors contributed a combined £2.9 million, including Watson, who donated $1 million, and Comic Relief, which contributed £1 million.
The fund’s launch and Watson’s contribution were also reported by Sky News and The Guardian. Emma Watson’s contribution to the fight against sexual harassment in the UK has helped support a network of organisations working with survivors and campaigning for safer workplaces and communities. The Justice and Equality Fund was established in collaboration with TIME’S UP UK to address sexual harassment, abuse and the culture of impunity surrounding them.
The centre also reported a 90% increase in the number of people approaching it for support, rising from 51 to 97. The initiative further supported campaigns led by young people and local organisations. The Compass Centre in Shetland, for instance, used the funding to encourage young residents to challenge gender-based violence in their communities. Its work included campaigns that attracted national media attention and partnerships with local organisations.
The report also highlights the importance of collaboration between organisations working on women’s rights. By bringing together charities, legal experts, businesses, trade unions, schools and campaigners, the fund helped create partnerships that could continue beyond individual funding programmes. However, the report points out that the need for sustained support remains considerable. Despite the progress made, women and girls continue to experience sexual harassment and abuse across workplaces, educational institutions and public spaces. Organisations working on the frontline also continue to face funding challenges.