A £230,000 centre that aims to help people get their lives back on track is about to open its doors after more than two years of planning.

The Porch Steppin' Stone Centre, based at Magdalen Road, Oxford, will offer a wide range of support when it opens its doors on Monday, June 4.

Project leaders say the scheme is designed to help people help themselves and is aimed at the v

ulnerable, especially the homeless.

People who have been homeless but are now adjusting to life after being rehoused are also welcome as are those with drug and alcohol problems, although no-one under the influence of drink or drugs will be admitted.

Among the facilities on offer are low-cost healthy meals, washing machines, showers, a cafe and clothing store.

Computer equipment has been purchased and a series of courses will be run in the future.

These will include numeracy, literacy, IT and Internet programmes as well as life skills.

A treatment room will also be created offering alternative therapy such as acupuncture and people helping out in the kitchens will get meals for free.

The project will cost more than £200,000 a year to run and is funded by a range of agencies including the Government's Single Regeneration Budget, as well as by cash raised by supporters.

Development worker Dr Victoria Mort said: "The centre will provide a clean, dry and welcoming environment for anyone who needs it. We hope to help people stop being dependant and I think it will be absolutely tremendous. It will also provide a place for people to meet and help each other."

Director Lisa Brophy said: "Now that we are about to open at last, we can go from strength to strength. I think the computer facilities will be one of the most popular aspects."

People can use the scheme's facilities for free but they will be asked to join formally, at no cost, after trying it out.

The centre will replace the former Porch homeless drop-in facility based at All Saints Convent, St Mary's Road.

It is being run by the Porch Group, which is part of the All Saints Society of Sisters of the Poor, and will open at first from 11am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm every day except Wednesdays.

The centre currently has more than 100 volunteers who have moved over from the old Porch project but more are needed. Anyone able to help can call 01865 728545.