VULNERABLE people have been given an extra helping hand to get back on track thanks to the Warrington Guardian's charity of the year.

Openingdoors has just launched a new panel involving key representatives from agencies across the borough that will join forces to help better serve people in need.

The Multi Agency Needs Assessment Panel (MANAP) will meet at the Gateway Centre each month to discuss the cases of those in need and provide a comprehensive package of support.

Stephanie Hillier, from Openingdoors, which helps people who are homeless or facing housing issues, said: "For the people who this affects, it gives them a chance to get their voice heard which will be empowering for them. Hopefully with all the agencies getting together on a regular basis it will speed up the process, improve communication and reduce duplication of work across agencies."

Agencies involved in the project include: alcohol and drugs services, Arch initiatives, benefits agency, community matron, Golden Gates Housing, hospital discharge team, James Lee House, mental health services, probation, social services, vulnerable tenants support service, Warrington Borough Council, Warrington community drugs team, YMCA and the job centre.