A PROJECT that offers a helping hand to residents in Worcester's most deprived areas is "massive" for those communities.

The Community Connector scheme is a support network for vulnerable residents in Warndon, Brickfields and Tolladine.

People attending sessions at centres are given advice and help with any issues they may have.

The initiative aims to improve peoples' financial situations, offer health and lifestyle advice and boost employment skills.

Teresa Ellis is one of the four 'community connectors' tasked with supporting residents in the WR4 postcode.

She said: "It's a massive project for these areas.

"We're trying to reduce health inequalities and aiming to build on lifestyle choices and health choices.

"We're also looking at areas of unemployment and mental health."

The project is a joint initiative by Worcester Community Trust and Our Happy Place.

It aims to have had an impact on 500 people by March.

Miss Ellis explained that the lifeline offers support in a number of ways and attendees can take part in both group and one-to-one sessions.

A lifestyle group has been run by the community connectors for the past five weeks - and already had an impact.

Miss Ellis said: "It's so rewarding.

"Some people came in on the first day and couldn't even speak and were withdrawn - some with mental health issues as well.

"The difference after five weeks is huge - they're moving on in their lives and talking a lot in a group environment.

"You can see the difference that they've got out of coming to the project, it's really boosted their confidence and has made a huge difference to their lives."

Anyone looking for more details should call 01905 459 008 or 07591 640259, email connect@worcestercommunitytrust.org.uk or visit worcestercommunitytrust.org.uk.

Groups run from 10am to 12noon on Mondays at the Tolly Centre in Rowan Avenue, on Wednesdays at Warndon Youth and Community Centre in Sharp Drive and on Fridays at the KGV community centre in Ash Avenue.