A LEADING charity opens the doors to a "lifeline" for the borough's young carers today.

Barnardo's Bolton Young Carers' Project is aimed at children and young people who take responsibility for a parent or relative who is disabled, ill or experiencing mental distress.

The centre is at 22 Chorley New Road, Bolton, where young carers are able to enjoy social activities and receive support for their responsibilities at home.

Some of the young people already receiving help from the service are as young as 11-years-old. Bolton Council and Wigan and Bolton Health Authority have pooled resources and pledged £35,000 a year over a three year period to finance the project.

Bolton Young Carers' worker, Katrina Wilkinson, said: "This is a joint financed project between Barnardo's, Wigan and Bolton Health Authority and Bolton Social Services Department.

"Thanks to the backing of these bodies we have been given the chance to offer this much-needed service to the children and young people of Bolton."

Following the opening ceremony the centre will be open to the public between 1pm and 6pm.

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