A SERVICE is taking to the road to show the people of County Durham how easy it can be to change their lives.

The nextstep service, funded by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), provides advice and support to adults aged 20 and over who want to learn new skills or find a better job.

A nextstep team will tour County Durham between December 30 and January 20, where they will explain how anyone stuck in a rut can change direction.

Chris Roberts, regional director of LSC North-East, said: "We wanted to see people in their own environment and show them how easy it is to change their life.

"At this time of year, people are thinking about the future, and we felt it was a great opportunity to come into the local community and show adults how they can improve their lot in terms of literacy and skills.

"So many people are trapped in jobs they are not happy with, or want to improve their lot in life.

"The nextstep service not only provides access to potential funds to those willing to learn, it can also open up new doors by offering improved career prospects."

The nextstep service can also help people access financial help such as the Adult Learning Grant, which provides £30 a week to people studying for their first Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.

The roadshow visits Chester-le-Street market on December 30; Stanley market on January 5; Peterlee town centre on January 7 and 12; Bishop Auckland market on January 13; Durham Market Place on the morning of January 14 and Spennymoor in the afternoon; and Newton Aycliffe town centre on January 20.

For further information, contact 0845 408 9757.