Bernie Carroll, Hereward’s Hostel Services manager, said: “We wanted to improve the service. We felt the project was an excellent one and wanted to do as much to help as possible so we acquired four custom designed flats in just one block.”

Mr Carroll added: “Ormiston will receive nominations from Fenland Council for mums to move into these flats and people from Hereward and Ormiston will interview the young women who have been nominated.

“If there is a flat vacant then they will be given a tenancy but part of the agreement is that they must work with Ormiston and Hereward.

“At Hereward we provide the property and give them guidance on their responsibilities as a tenant and how to keep the flat in a good state of repair.

“All the flats are one bedroomed and come with central heating and a fitted kitchen and bathroom.”

Hereward also manages four houses for homeless families in Fenland but the handing over of the newly built block of flats late last year was a major sign of their commitment to the project.

Project leader Sandra Frayne said: “Our aim is to support the young mothers to a point where they are able to live independently and then perhaps go to college or work. We have a skills for life programme which explores health and education issues and social responsibilities.”

Project leader Sandra Frayne (rear) with project workers
Janice Oliver (left) and Rebecca Rist.

Sandra added: “We also provide a support group for up to eight young mums at our project based in Money Bank, with play activities for the children, and run a Teenage Parents Groups in Wisbech, March and Chatteris.

“Some of the parents have been trained to act as mentors to others – meaning they are able to support other young people which is a fantastic achievement.”

23rd February 2006