Three north west women have been appointed to the National Muslim Women’s Advisory Group, which was formally launched by the Prime Minister during an Eid reception at Downing Street.

Director of Peacemaker in Oldham, Sakkina Ahmed, youth worker Samina Kauser and founding member of Lancashire based women’s organisation, Sahara, Zulekha Dala joined 16 other members of the group for the official launch in London.

The advisory group, which was set up by Communities and Local Government as part of its work to prevent violent extremism, is made up of women representing a wide spectrum of communities, professions and traditions and are in positions of leadership or are working with communities.

They will discuss issues and concerns that affect Muslim women including education, employment, access for women to mosques and their management committees and cultural barriers including issues around forced marriages.

They will meet several times a year advising on issues to empower Muslim women and increase their participation in civic, economic and social life and to also help to encourage more women to engage with individuals at risk of being targeted by violent extremists.

The advisory group will also report on the progress of existing projects, and will suggest new ways to give Muslim women a real voice and the opportunity to play a bigger role in their community.

Said Gordon Brown: "Muslim women have a huge role to play in helping us build a stronger, better society. That is why I am delighted today to mark the official launch of the National Muslim Women’s Advisory Group. From a range of different communities and traditions, and with careers including business, journalism, academia and public service, the group represents an extraordinary richness of experience and understanding.

He added: "They will be role models, showing the breadth of Muslim women's achievements, and ambassadors for the grass roots, speaking direct to the heart of Government on vital issues such as education and employment. I wish them every success in this important work."

Communities Secretary and Salford MP Hazel Blears said: ""The group have already begun to make a difference through their involvement in the recently published case studies document for Muslim women. The projects detailed in the guide are designed to highlight some of the work being carried out in communities and encourage local authorities to consider what more they can do to help Muslim women overcome barriers to greater empowerment."