New facility will help the disadvantaged

HELP will soon be at hand for disadvantaged people living in some of the city's poorest areas.

An 'Op Shop' is set to be launched on October 8, offering free services ranging from the use of computers to expert advice on benefits and debts.

Based above The Falcon pub, in Melville Road, Keyham, the new facility will include a shop, helping to raise cash.

Organisers hope to set up a food bank and organise social activities for people living in the Ford, North Prospect and Keyham areas.

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A social networking website titled TheBuzz will also be launched online to keep residents up-to-date with fundraising and projects, as well as having a lost and stolen property, missing pets and things to do section.

Volunteer Adam Goss, one of the team behind the grassroots project, said: "The aim of the centre is to help the people of Ford, Keyham and North Prospect by offering a range of free-to-use services, and in the creation of a retail outlet which will be selling new and donated products."

Now the creators of the Ford Op Shop are appealing for volunteers to come forward to help run the centre, which will be managed by Alex Houston.

Donations of items such as bric-a-brac, DVDs, books, CDs and other items are also being sought to sell and volunteers are appealing for businesses to donate items such as a cash register, rails for clothing, shelving or any other display equipment.

Op Shop Ford will set up links, working with other agencies, by helping local people to find the support and services they need.

The centre will be open from 10am until 5pm Monday to Friday and from 10am until 4pm on Saturdays.

To get involved call 01752 362566 or to contact the centre now dial 01525 00000.