A NEW lottery-funded project has been launched to help women raise their aspirations and achieve their full potential.

Supporting Sisters will see trained volunteers use their own experience to help other women.

The project, based in Chester-le-Street, has received almost £500,000 from the Big Lottery Fund for the five-year scheme.

It will offer access to one-to-one mentoring, befriending and listening services, as well as support groups, wellness sessions and on-site crèche based at the Aspire Learning, Support and Wellbeing women’s centre.

The launch event was attended by local government and community organisations from across the North East and visitors were offered free hand massages and foot care treatments.

Speaking at the launch of Supporting Sisters, Aspire director Janice Rokni, said: “This is such an exciting new journey for Aspire.

“Supporting Sisters will help women to feel supported and stay well so they can live the lives they want to live.

“The fantastic level of support we received today shows how much services like this are in demand from local women and other organisations working across the community.”

To find out more about Supporting Sisters, contact Aspire on 0191-389 1504 or email sisters@aspire-northeast.co.uk