COURSES to boost budgeting skills will be launched by a project that helps social housing tenants make their money go further.

Monkey, a partnership project funded by the Big Lottery Fund, is working with housing providers and voluntary sector organisations in County Durham to run training courses to help tenants manage their finances.

More than 400 people will have the opportunity to learn more about saving and managing money through a variety of schemes.

Derwentside Homes will work with 60 people across Stanley and Consett on a six week accredited course on budgeting and money management.

SHAID (Single Homeless Action Initiative in Durham) plans courses for 100 young people and those who are harder to reach across County Durham.

Homes and communities company livin will offer new tenants in need of support tailored pre-tenancy courses using tablets to help people build confidence using the internet and making savings online.

East Durham Homes is targeting its money management training at people in rural communities in East Durham and in areas where access to banks and other financial services is difficult.

Fiona Christian, Monkey project manager, said: “We are delighted to be supporting our partners to run these sessions.

“Many people have been hit hard with squeezed incomes over the last few years, these courses show that even on a tight budget you can take control of your finances and make your money go further.”

The courses will take place over the next year in locations throughout County Durham, most are open to anyone living in County Durham.

For details visit monkey.uk.net or call Monkey on 01388-424697.