RESIDENTS are reaping the benefits of better health and job opportunities following the establishment of new medical centres.

Last year, Sunderland City Council was awarded £3m from the New Opportunities Fund to establish four Healthy Living Centres (HLC's) in Greater Southwick, Thorney Close and Farringdon; North Washington and Sunderland's coalfield area.

Since then, 53 projects promoting health and social welfare have been set up using the HLC's as bases, creating 57 jobs including 42 for Sunderland residents.

Tina Cheverton, of Wear View, became one of the city's first community food workers. She said: "I'm learning so many new things, and feel very privileged to be sharing my new-found skills and knowledge with others."

As part of local communities' involvement in the centres, 39 residents have joined community forums to help identify local health needs and the type of projects which could address them.

The Southwick Health and Community Forum, formally constituted in February, has already submitted funding applications for two new health projects.

Time for Music will provide music and recording training courses for youngsters, while Support for Single Parents will create a drop-in facility offering support and advice.

Helen Townsend, Healthy Living Centre co-ordinator, said: "The response from local people in relation to Healthy Living Centres has exceeded all expectations.

"I believe this can be directly attributed to the detailed consultation which took place in all the areas of HLC operation before our funding applications were submitted.

"The Healthy Living Centre programme will contribute to building a valuable skills and knowledge base around the subject of health at a local level."

For more details on participating in the programme, or information on vacancies for staff or volunteers, ring Ms Townsend on 0191-553 1139.