People living in North Bradford are to be trained as "good neighbours" in a scheme launched next week.

National charity Homestart UK is behind the project which encourages members of the community to offer help and support in people's own homes.

The charity plans to train volunteers in Newlands to give advice and support to people facing a range of problems, from the pressures of being a new mum to coping with a family member with mental illness.

The launch follows the setting up of similar projects in Leeds and Shipley.

Reverend Brunel James, chairman of Bradford North's Homestart steering committee, said there were people with a wealth of experience to offer others in their community.

"It's a very simple idea of using the community's own resources to deal with its own problems," he said.

"In the old days the community was a bit closer and people had support from within their own family. But these days families are more spread out and people don't always know who is in need of a helping hand.

"Nobody wants to be seen as a busybody and embarrass people by offering help but a lot of people need help and many have the desire to help."

Sue Berry, training organiser for the Powerhouse project which promotes volunteer services in the Newlands area, is hoping that people will take the opportunity to become involved.

She said: "The scheme is important because it helps families in distress by supporting them in their home. Hopefully it will help prevent family crises without needing intervention from a social worker."

The first Bradford Homestart meeting will be held at St Augustine's Church, Otley Road, on Wednesday, December 2, from 11.30am, and all are welcome.

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