YOUNG parents in Worcester are set to receive a helping hand from a new support service that aims to help them develop the life skills and confidence to live independently and gain their own accommodation.

The Park Street project, to be launched on Wednesday, May 24, has been commissioned by Supporting People, Worcestershire County Council and Worcester City Council.

Trident Housing Association has been chosen to provide the service and will offer low-level housing-related support to teenage parents.

Laura Westwood, supporting people commissioning and review officer, said: "Supporting People is a Government initiative aimed at enabling vulnerable people with housing support needs to live independently in the community.

"This service will help young parents to cope with the demands of parenthood and develop skills to manage their own home."

Supporting People will provide the funding for the support given by Trident while Worcester City Council is providing capital funding for the conversion of the basement into an office, playroom and kitchen.

Other local agencies involved include: Surestart, Connexions, Teenage Pregnancy and Parenting Manager for Worcestershire, and SMAT (Substance Misuse Action Team). Mrs Westwood added: "This is a great example of how a multi-disciplinary approach can work wonders for the local community and I'm confident Trident, alongside other local agencies, will be able to provide a first-class and worthwhile service to teenage parents in Worcester."

Anyone who is interested in attending the launch day, in particular young parents or parents-to-be, can contact the Supporting People team on 01905 728821.

It will run from 11am to 4pm. Local dignitaries will be invited to attend as will people from community services, current residents, local churches, health centres and other local agencies who may have an interest in the project.

There are plans to provide a small bouncy castle for young children and a buffet for all visitors.

There will be stands from the various agencies involved offering information about the project and their services generally.