A DANCE group that supports young women with their mental wellness has kick started its new term.

MADS, a name which was decided by the group themselves, stands for Mind and Dance as it supports positive mental health in young women through dance.

The charity Ad Astra organise and run the programme alongside the Women’s Wellness Group under a project called SWAG (Stronger Women and Girls).

The group, which is led by Rachael Sharpe, is funded by the North Area council to provide support to young girls with all aspects of their lives.

The first half of the sessions are all about dance, and the second half is centred around discussions of mental wellness.

Michelle Cooper, from Ad Astra, said: “MADS is about making young girls feel comfortable to participate in these activities.

“The safe environment that we’ve created allows young women to come from lots of different backgrounds and all mix together. From that, it provides a wonderful peer support structure.”

The group are working currently working towards a performance in March, where together with the Women’s Wellness group, they will host an event to celebrate International Women’s Day.

MADS rehearse every Tuesday from 4pm at the McGann House in Old Town and every Thursday from 4pm at New Lodge Community Centre.