As the manager of the council's women-only steam baths, Violet (Diana Dors) finds herself acting as den mother to the walking wounded who come through her doors. Seeking escape from the world - and their men - the women are free to talk openly about their humdrum lives, vicious boyfriends, money worries and dead end jobs. Nancy (Vanesa Redgrave) and Sarah (Sarah Miles) come from privileged backgrounds, while Josie (Patti Love) is working class through and through, but all find common ground in their experiences. Now, however, the council are threatening to close down the baths, and the women must get together to fight...