A NEW service has been launched in Burnham to help people with learning difficulties to meet new friends and socialise.

The Monday Club at the Bay Centre offers a range of activities to users and their carers to meet the Government policy of social inclusion.

Despite having no budget, Bay Centre founder Julia Elswood says the project has started with enthusiasm.

“Generous donations of time from our three volunteers so far have provided what we needed for the first two open days”, she added.

“We have a rent holiday for the hall and hope to get to break even before donations in kind and of time run out.

“Members do not have to commit to coming every week, some people may like to drop in occasionally, and the 'pay as you go' system means we will need to introduce as many members as we can to become financially viable.”

Julia added: “All the people who have come so far were at a loose end and were looking for somewhere to go.

“I wanted to create a place for people in mainstream society that was also right for them. The Bay Centre has other rooms that are hired out at the same time and is very accessible to the community.

“I want to offer the opportunity for people to do everyday/ordinary things that a lot of us take for granted, for example, using the internet and eBay, socialising, and having a laugh.

“Carers have a tough job and I want to create an environment that is comfortable and sociable for them too.”