SUPPORT workers will visit the homes of people with mental health problems for the first time in a bid to help them lead more independent lives.

Wyre Forest MIND has launched a new service which will help sufferers develop domestic and life skills, manage their money and benefit claims and expand their social lives. Staff will also monitor their health and wellbeing.

In the past the group's focus has been on providing day services and drop-in sessions - with a lack of finance meaning these were limited to Kidderminster.

But volunteers are now available to visit anyone in Wyre Forest after a Government grant of £3,600 enabled the group to set up the new service. It is open to anyone who needs help coping with everyday tasks.

Initially the service will only be available to people living in rented accommodation as it is being funded from transitional housing benefit and requires a variation to the tenancy agreement to provide support.

However, it will be funded by social services from next April.

MIND co-ordinator Bob Edge said: "In the past people have had to come to us to attend out sessions. The difference with this is we go out to people's homes.

"This level of support will enable people to move out of the vulnerable category into greater independence and to learn the skills needed to live good quality lives and to cope with everyday living in their own accommodation."

He added there was no upper limit to how many people could be helped.

It was revealed earlier this year MIND, based at Paddington House New Road, Kidderminster, was running at a £10,000 deficit following a cut in social services funding - but it is in the process of preparing a bid for cash from Wyre Forest Primary Care Trust next year.

Details about the new scheme are available by calling MIND on 01562 865035.