AN inspirational Rowley Regis volunteer who stopped a child marriage in Bangladesh is continuing to support girls back in the UK.

Kate Weaver, aged 28, was inspired by her experiences volunteering in Bangladesh where she established a child marriage prevention committee.

Working alongside Bangladeshi volunteers, she raised awareness of sexual reproductive health and rights.

When the community started to report concerns, the committee was able to prevent a child marriage.

Speaking ahead of International Women’s Day, Kate said: “It was shocking to learn that child marriage is still a problem in some communities, even worse to see it happening in the village you are volunteering in.

“This is a massive step in the right direction and while this was only one marriage out of many that still take place across the country, we hope that our committee will be role model for other villages.”

Kate travelled to Bangladesh as part of the International Citizen Service (ICS) programme, which allows young people aged 18 to 35 to contribute to sustainable development projects in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

She is now working at The Girls’ Network, a charity that connects girls with professional role models to help them reach their full potential.

Kate said: “Volunteering in Bangladesh made me realise how even in the UK we still have issues regarding gender equality.”

Felicity Morgan, director of ICS, added: “It’s really inspiring to hear about the fantastic work Kate is doing.

“We’re incredibly proud that UK Aid is supporting young Brits to bring about positive change in some of the world’s poorest communities.”