GROUPS at a newly-refurbished community centre are joining forces to support residents in the local area and help people turn their lives around.

The Centre@Burnholme, which was opened during the summer on the site of the former Burnholme Community College, will be providing a weekly "one stop shop" approach to their services.

Information will be made available from groups including Tang Hall Smart (THS), a not-for-profit social enterprise that offers a range of arts-based activities to those most in need, Tang Hall Explore library and Tang Hall Big Local, part of a National Lottery-funded programme that aims to make the area a better place to live.

Details will also be available about housing and debt support, local enterprises, community grants and activities and general well-being.

Sue Williamson, the woman behind THS and this new collaboration said: "The idea is that when people and organisations club together and work towards a common good, it leads to a powerful service delivery, where places can really begin to thrive.

"There will be many reasons for people to come to this regular event, for example, someone may be interested in hearing about how to apply for a small business grant, or find out about food banks or activities they can join in."

Sessions are every Wednesday from 12.30-2.30pm, with live music every second week.