A TEENAGER who once contemplated suicide has had his life dramatically transformed by a leading Worcester charity.

Now, he is repaying the debt by backing the Worcester Welfare Rights Centre's (WWRC) poster campaign, which is soon hopefully set to hit city streets.

Based in Angel Place, the centre works to house and advise the homeless, but despite its positive work it has remained somewhat unnoticed.

But now the team of trained workers and "befrienders" are aiming to pick one hard-hitting poster from a range designed by students at Worcester Art and Design College to promote its supportive services.

And according to the teenager, who asked not to be named, the centre provided vital structure and support to help re-build his life.

"Last November, I was ready to jump off the Severn Bridge. But now I have a comfortable place to say, enough money to get by on and I have made lots of friends," he said.

"I was living in St Paul's hostel and I never felt comfortable from day one and felt that I needed to get out."

St Paul's recommended that he should visit WWRC and, after seeing them for three months, managed to get back on his feet.

"They helped me find a flat and helped me with my benefits - getting backdated benefits that were due to me and helped me sort out my budget.

"Having a support worker come around to check on me was the best part, because that way I was sure I was getting help to take control of my life. He was easy to talk to and I didn't feel he was judging me."

Volunteer co-ordinator Mary Connor said the young man's transformation had been incredible, especially with his growth in confidence.

She hopes other people will follow his lead and find out the range of facilities on offer.

The winning poster to promote the charity will be chosen this Saturday. Any firms or businesses who may be able to help with printing call 01905 612774.