A PROJECT to help vulnerable woman and female offenders make changes to their lives is set to continue after finding funding for another 12 months.

A pilot scheme for the Catalyst Project was set up in April 2011 after consultation with women attending probation supervision in the Hambleton and Richmondshire area showed a need for extra support.

And its success - for both women and their mentors - has encouraged several organisations to provide funding and other resources for a further year.

“The Catalyst Project offers opportunities for women, to find support and engage with the community, including exploring volunteering activities on community projects, work experience, education, training, career development and wellbeing guidance,” said Annette Greenwood, a project manager with Thirsk Community Care Association, who set the scheme up.