It is often the case that people in modern times think they were the first to use a phrase, but “Women Power” was all over newspaper headlines in 1942. 

The British government changed the conscription laws in December 1941, meaning that more men were called to the frontlines abroad and that women were called up to compulsory service. Service in the Land Army, the women’s air force, navy, army, in other public roles and even in catering. If you were between 20 and 31 years of age, the Ministry of Labour Exchange had to approve your current work or allocate you to a role.

British woman in Great Britain, whether married or single, had to attend a local office of the Ministry of Labour on the day that their age group was called up and give certain facts. Those who did not have children at home under 14, were interviewed and allocated an appropriate “compulsory” role. This process began on 7^th February, 1942. 

At this time, women were asked to do many things that had been considered too difficult for women over the years, and the government and industry celebrated the female role in the production that not only kept the British Isles running but built the equipment that would result in the success of the land invasions that lead to the Allies winning World War II.

By the end of 1942, 16,000 women were employed by the Great Western Railway, replacing the 13,000 men in service and undertaking new roles to fulfil orders from the Ministries of Transport and Supply.