EVER wanted to learn a new skill, but felt like the chance was out of reach because of a lack of money, transport, or confidence?

‘Breaking down the barriers to education’ is the aim of a new three-year project which will provide affordable and free access to community education courses throughout Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

The Reach project, launched by Pembrokeshire College at Pembrokeshire County Show earlier this month, will offer a range of courses for all abilities, from arts and crafts to I.T.

Classes will be run in community venues across the county, making it easier for those in rural areas to attend.

Funded by a £250,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund, the college will be working closely with Learning Pembrokeshire and Dysgu Bro Ceredigion, to make sure the service links up with courses already on offer across the two counties.

Support agencies and charities will also be on hand to provide extra support to those who need it, including people with drug and alcohol dependency or mental health issues.

It is hoped that Reach will not only help people gain qualifications, but also provide additional benefits like better health and wellbeing, and improved confidence.