The Girls’ Network, a charity supporting girls aged 14-19 from the least advantaged communities, is calling for women mentors as they expand into Southampton.

Launched in 2014, The Girls’ Network is a national equality charity that pairs girls aged 14-19 with a mentor who is a professional woman. They connect mentees to work experience opportunities, networking events and exclusive workshops, alongside a year-long mentoring programme. The foundation of this is the mentors and the charity has opened recruitment for women in the city to sign-up and train to become a mentor to a teenage girl.

“Mentoring is a simple but effective tool for empowering girls. This works best when women and girls share the journey based on a mutual connection of place and we’re excited to invite women in Southampton to join us as mentors.

“If you have had experience of the workplace, have time and willingness to support a girl to overcome obstacles and seize opportunities, get in touch," said Paula Falck, Network Manager for Portsmouth and Southampton at The Girls’ Network

Mentors can help girls overcome a whole host of barriers, from limited confidence to lack of access to role models who are women. The charity is seeking applications for volunteer mentors from women who are easily able to relate to others, committed and reliable and good at working through problems.

The Girls’ Network asks mentors for a commitment of at least one hour a month, over the course of a year. In return they are fully trained and supported by the charity.

To find out more, and sign up to become a mentor, visit thegirlsnetwork.org.uk/become-a-mentor.