A MAJOR drive to transform the lives of people in south Lowestoft is being unveiled today.

Members of the public are being invited to a two-day launch event for the 'Our Kirkley', initiative which will seek to improve health, offer new social opportunities and address problems faced by those not in regular work.

Described by organisers as 'an exciting new way forward to help meet the varying needs of Kirkley ward residents' full details of the project will be revealed at the Kirkley Centre in London Road South today and tomorrow.

With a host of organisations backing the initaitive, the launch event has been organised to allow people in Kirkley to say what facilities they would like to see in their community, as well as to find out what help is already on offer.

'Our Kirkley is about creating new activities and opportunities for the people who live in Kirkley – reaching out, getting people involved and building more community spirit within the area,' said a spokesman for the organisers.

The organisations involved in the project include Waveney District Council, Jobcentre Plus, the Community Forum, JUMP (Junior2adult Unbiased Mentoring Project), the NHS, Lowestoft College, Scouts, Citizens Advice Bureau, LEAP, Waveney Gym, The Crossing, Enterprise Lowestoft, Shaw Trust, Community Connections, Kirkley High School, Lowestoft Fresh Produce Co-op, Norfolk and Waveney Enterprise Services (NWES), BusinessLink East, and Community Learning and Skills Development.

They will work in partnership with the aim of to providing Kirkley with a range of services, advice and activities aimed at people of all ages. Efforts will be focused on three key areas: health, social issues and employment.

A variety of ways will be used to encourage people to get involved and create more community spirit within the area.

These will include workshops on health awareness, debt advice, basic learning and skills, job searches and volunteering opportunities, as well as a work club and activities to strengthen established groups, such as the Scouts.

However, the long-term aim is to provide a range of regular services in Kirkley which will help people move forward in their lives.

The launch event opens at 9.30am today, with Waveney MP Peter Aldous giving an opening address at 10am.

Activities will include mini introductory sessions for stress-busting and improving confidence, advice on health issues, including a health MOT, postural and balance tests, and dynamic band training.

Information will also be available on starting a business, work experience, learning and improving skills. Tonight from 6-8pm there will be business enterprise seminars, and tomorrow the event will run from 10am to 3pm.

'Overall, there will be 30-plus stalls, information points and stands, as well as activities over the two days,' the spokesman added.

'The project has received initial funding that will enable it to grow over an initial two-year period.'

n To find out more, visit the Kirkley Centre's website or contact Jeannette White on 01502 504035.