A COMMUNITY centre is running courses to help young people learn how to live on their own.

Workers at Bullion Hall, in Chester-le-Street, noticed that many of the young people attending their courses were having trouble with household responsibilities, including paying bills, receiving benefits and managing debts.

So now the centre is running a course to point young people in the right direction.

Brenda Beveridge, from Chester-le-Street, who is organising the course, said: "We decided there was a need for it because of the needs of young people who have been on some of our other courses.

"They are leaving home, getting a flat on their own and then going, 'Now what do we do?'"

Speakers will be brought in to cover tasks including getting loans, choosing the best bank account, managing personal budgets and complaining about faulty goods.

There will be free transport, hot lunches and free use of computer equipment.

Anyone wanting to take part in the course can contact Brenda on 0191-387 1192 or call at Bullion Hall, South Approach, Chester-le-Street.

The six-day course fits in with school hours and runs on November 24 and 25, December 1, 2, 8 and 9.