A BIG Brother house experience to give vulnerable teenagers in Bedlington lessons in life has proved a huge hit.
Organised by the Bedlington Youth Project, 11 housemates were locked away together for four days in a secret location to undergo tasks.
These included cooking, budgeting, first aid, DIY, shopping, health and employment – and a realistic crying 'baby' doll gave them a taste of parenthood.
Lyndsay Buckle won after housemates were given help and advice from firefighters, midwives, health visitors, food hygienists, Jobcentre staff and police.
Youth worker Lyn Horton said: "The aim of the house experience was to increase confidence, promote independent living skills, encourage employment training and education and gain new skills.
"There were lots of surprises and challenges along the way."
A diary room allowed housemates express their feelings.
Lucy Roberts from the youth project added: "I am sure everyone will have gained a lot from their four days in the Big Brother house.
"They were a brilliant four days, and everyone took part in the tasks and they were all completed."
31 March 2006
blyth-wansbecktoday
