A not-for-profit organisation has set up a programme to give girls much-needed guidance and support.

Kim McCabe, author and founder of Rites for Girls CIC, has developed The Girls’ Net programme after the community interest company received lottery funding to launch a six-week online programme.

The next 48 slots are available for girls aged eight to 18 at a minimal fee of £20.

Participating girls acclaim the initiative, lauding its practical, helpful toolset and the chance it offers to connect non-judgmentally with peers.

Local Girls’ Net Mentor, mum of three and ex-teacher Tracy Spring, said: "When I read about this programme two years ago, something inside me clicked: I could see how it offers an innovative, fun and supportive safety net for growing girls to learn be able to just be themselves; I wanted to train to be a part of its delivery across Hampshire as soon as I could.

"We read, see and hear about the struggles and pressures our girls are facing – from what they see on social media, with their bodies changing, with friendship challenges and managing the transition to secondary school. Girls’ Net is the support I would have loved to have had when I was a girl, and I’m delighted to be bringing it to girls here in Hampshire."

Ms Spring is thrilled to introduce this initiative to Hampshire and invites interested parties to visit ritesforgirls.com

For more information, contact her at girlsnet.mentor.tracy@gmail.com or call 07957 128790.