The initiative has also been welcomed by the schools involved, with an emphasis on the value of positive role models, confidence-building and helping young people consider their future aspirations.

Sarah Fear, Pastoral Manager at Orchard School Bristol, said: “As a trusted organisation rooted within the local community, Bristol Rovers Community Trust is uniquely positioned to connect with our students. Providing this opportunity within the school setting would have significant benefits. It would support improved attendance by giving students a sense of belonging and motivation to engage in school life.”

She added that the activities would help foster stronger relationships between young people and their wider community, encouraging aspiration and a sense of pride in their local area.

Frazer Phillips, Bristol Rovers Community Trust Head of Sport, added: “At Bristol Rovers Community Trust, we’re committed to using the power of sport and our position in the local community to create opportunities that make a real difference to young people’s lives. Through empowHER, we want to provide girls with the support, guidance and positive role models they need to build confidence, raise their aspirations and feel empowered to shape their own futures.

“By working with girls at different stages of their school journey, we can help address some of the challenges they face, encourage positive change and highlight the many pathways available to them, whether in sport, education or employment. We’re delighted to launch this project with the support of the Premier League Foundation and the PFA Players’ Fund, and we’re excited to see the impact empowHER can have across our local community.”

Alongside the initial programme, empowHER will aim to create longer-term progression opportunities for participants, including links to local football programmes, volunteering and further education pathways.

The initiative forms part of Bristol Rovers Community Trust’s wider work to use sport and community engagement to support young people, tackle inequalities and create positive opportunities across Bristol.

Bristol Rovers launch empowHER initiative to support girls across the city

Bristol Rovers launch empowHER initiative to support girls across the city