ORGANISERS of a course designed to boost the self-esteem and confidence of women who have been victims of domestic violence, are urging more women to put their names forward.

St Helens Women's Aid have been running the First Steps project since March this year at their training centre in Reflection Court, Grove Street.

Funded jointly by the European Social Fund (ESF) and the Merseyside Health Action Zone (HAZ) under the Government's Coalfield Regeneration programme, the 18-week course not only covers the basic skills of maths, English and computer studies, but includes vocational studies such as how to write a CV and job interview techniques, basic parenting and care work and alternative therapies such as yoga, aromatherapy and assertiveness training.

The course's outreach co-ordinator, Jennie Bates, told the Star: "The course is based around three areas; basic literacy, personal growth, and guidance and counselling. At the moment, we are about half-way through the second programme and I am recruiting for the third one which starts in September. "Any woman over 18 is eligible, but if they are slightly younger than this and have children, we can be flexible. We operate an open-door policy and even women experiencing drug or alcohol problems are welcome, providing they are already enrolled on a rehab programme. The course is free with up to £9.50 travel expenses provided and we also have a free creche facility for any child aged between three months and 12 years old."

She added: "Most of the women are referred to us by the Women's Drop In Centre and it can get quite emotional for them because most have no self-worth when they start due to their domestic situation. This course is all about encouraging them to take those first steps towards a happier life and we encourage them to express their feelings in class. The end of the first course was very satisfying because the women had come on so much. Some of them actually enrolled on new courses at St Helens College and one particular girl who would barely open her mouth at the start of the course actually got up and made a speech in St Helens Town Hall when they all received their final certificates which was wonderful."

The next First Steps course begins on Monday, September 4. Anyone requiring more information can contact Jennie on (01744) 735411.