Why do we desperately need groups like GFS during times of crisis?

For many, The Cost of Living Crisis has forced them to choose between daily necessities such as food, sanitary products, clothing and gas and electric bills. But where does that leave children?

Rising costs don’t change the fact that girls desperately need support and safety, or even fun. In fact, gender inequality is rising, while girls’ well-being and happiness is declining.

Which is why we want to share an important reminder that cost should never be a barrier for any girl who wants to come to GFS.

Our group fees have never been intended to make a profit, they simply exist to help cover core costs, such as hall rental fees. But we know ‘low cost’ can still be too high a price sometimes.

So, we welcome all who need to access fee waivers to get in touch. Our full fee waiver system is available to all who need it – both new and existing girls alike.

Guardians can self-refer for fee waivers at the time of signup. If you have paid fees in the past and found your circumstances to have changed, you can contact us at any time to ask for a waiver.

From there, we work to make sure all costs are covered centrally. On top of that, every group can apply for one fully funded trip each year.

This way, groups who need more waivers still have the same resources they need to provide their girls with positive experiences.

How does GFS compare to similar groups in terms of cost, then?

Termly fees for comparable girls groups are around £35 paid upfront, compared to £26, spread across the term at GFS.

There are also additional hidden charges. Uniformed groups typically require around £40-50 for uniforms (no uniform required at GFS!), and many have costs for badges, certificates or grades.

We have found that groups similar to GFS charge up to £140 for a two day trip, creating a divide between girls who can and cannot attend. Similar annual trips at GFS are heavily subsidised and individual circumstances are taken into consideration where needed.

In hard times, a place to be young, make friends and have new experiences is more important than ever.

That’s why GFS is here for all girls, even when things get tight at home.