ADULTS and businesses will now be able to join young people in getting help from careers advisors, as part of a major overhaul of the system in East Lancashire.

A new company, Connexions Lancashire Ltd, has been set up to take over the work of the East Lancashire Careers Service as part of a national shake-up among careers services.

Organisers of the new Connexions service hope it will be able to offer a more rounded approach for young people who need to make career choices, giving them advice on everything from family to home and even drugs.

A total of 450 staff have all transferred from the East Lancashire Careers Service and CareerLink and have been given further training for the expanded service they will be providing.

The new company, which has its headquarters at the Guide business centre in Blackburn, replaced the ELCS from April 1. Similar changes have taken place in careers services across the country.

It now offers advice and support for young people between 13 and 19 in areas such as housing and health, and learning and social issues, as well as careers advice.

But it will also be providing a new specialist service for adults and another which will offer a range of services to local businesses and employers.

Karen O'Donoghue, chief executive, said: "I believe that the new Connexions Service in Lancashire has the power to make a real difference to young people's lives while also offering career development and support for local residents whatever their age."

Offices have been opened at Abbey Street in Accrington, Duke Street in Blackburn, Hall Street in Burnley, Leeds Road in Nelson, Castle Street in Clitheroe, Albert Road in Colne, the Valley centre in Rawtenstall and an access point in Duckworth Street in Darwen.

For more details contact Connexions on 01254 685120 or visit the website at www.lancashire-connexions.co.uk