WARRINGTON Youth Club has received more than £9,000 as part of a scheme to support women and girls facing a range of challenges.

The money has been awarded by Cheshire Community Foundation from the Tampon Tax Community Fund to tackle issues such as period poverty, domestic and sexual abuse and mental health.

Based in the heart of the town centre, Warrington Youth Club, established in 1952, inspires young people by offering them opportunities to gain, increase and develop their skills.

The club will use its share of the money to create a personal development programme called Wondrous Wellbeing, helping 300 vulnerable young women aged 16 to 25.

It includes weekly activities such as girls-only gym sessions with education on body image, nutrition and sleep, a multi-sport programme including visits from sportswomen, dance sessions and arts and crafts to explore women’s empowerment.

There will also be positive life skills activities tackling personal care, cooking and financial inclusion as well as using performing arts to explore issues such as online safety, abusive relationships, self-harm and drug and alcohol awareness.

Zoe Sheppard, CEO of Cheshire Community Foundation, said: "This funding supports the groups on the ground that are making a huge difference to the lives of women and girls.

"We know there is huge demand out there for these services and are proud to help small organisations working in our community to access vital public funding which otherwise they may miss out on."

A total of six projects across Cheshire will benefit from the funding, including a dance theatre charity, a mentoring programme and mental health support.