PEOPLE living difficult lives on tough estates are learning how to transform their communities at the National Tenants’ Resource Centre on the outskirts of Chester.

Tomorrow, anyone can go along to an open day at the centre based in Trafford Hall, Wimbolds Trafford, to learn about the action-focused training.

The Grade II-listed building in 14 acres of grounds will be the setting for training in areas such as tackling anti-social behaviour or how to keep your chidren free of drugs. Tenants, families, community groups and professionals can get away from the every day and think more clearly while taking in the country air.

Other courses include Music and Dance Events, Setting up a Community Cafe and Planning Your Community Garden.

Established in 1995, such is the stature of the centre that it is now a national beacon for policy makers and professionals at the highest level.

Chief executive Sally Wyatt said: “Our training programme helps people and communities to address the issues they face across a wide range of topics including crime, violence, social exclusion, worklessness and social cohesion.”

People can stay over in wooden chalets with en-suite bathrooms looking out onto award-winning organically managed grounds and a kitchen garden.

Sally continued: “Our residential training programme is designed to meet the needs of residents, tenants, community volunteers, young people and families aim to increase skills, knowledge and confidence.

“Linked to the training programme we offer small, seed funding grants to enable groups to bring the community projects to life.”

The charity is grateful to the Friends of Trafford Hall who have helped fund essential renovation work which has just begun at the 1756 three-storey manor house where the centre is based.

The Open Day – which forms part of Cheshire’s Year of Gardens – takes place this Saturday, July 5, 10am-4pm.

For details of the free courses or to become a Friend of Trafford Hall, contact Claire Lawton on 01244 300246 or e-mail c.lawton@traffordhall.com