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People who need a little extra help and advice are being welcomed with open arms by an inspirational team of Paisley support workers.

The Star Project, in the town’s North End, is working tirelessly to improve the lives of vulnerable people in the community.

Whether someone is struggling with serious mental health problems, is going through a family bereavement, feels isolated or simply wants to make friends and learn new skills, the Star Project is on hand with a cup of tea and a friendly face.

Staff and volunteers go above and beyond to make sure that service users feel safe, welcome and know that a problem shared is a problem halved.

Project manager Sharon McAulay told the Express that people shouldn’t feel nervous about popping into the centre.

“One of the main things we ensure here is that everyone feels welcome,” she said.

“It doesn’t matter your age, background or reason for coming here.

“As soon as you open the door, staff and service users will give you a big ‘hello’.

“There’s absolutely no judgement.

“Folk can have private meetings, or just pop in for a chat. We’re here for anything people may need.”

Since the Star Project opened its doors in 1999 , more than 30 different groups and workshops have been set up.

This includes art workshops, drama classes, mother and toddler groups, breakfast clubs and a weekly drop-in session, as well as hosting the new Paisley Men’s Shed.

Support worker Roz Pizarro joined the team in November and says she couldn’t be happier in her work.

She said: “Day to day, I handle everything from people dealing with serious issues in their personal lives to others just looking for a little help. “We deal with low-level crisis. “That means, if there was anything really serious we would pass it on to another organisation, but we are on hand for support every step of the way.

“What I love about working here is the ethos. Nobody is ever turned away.”

Likewise, new recruit Stacey Gallacher loves her role as a project assistant.

“I feel like I’ve been here for years,” she said.

“There are difficult times and stories, but the end results and seeing people’s situations improve make it all worth it.”

Over in the main office, administrator Lynne McKain loves coming into work.

“I just enjoy the atmosphere in here,” Lynne said.

“People are so friendly, and I really like the premise of the charity.”

One proud Buddie who “has come on leaps and bounds” since walking through the doors of the Star Project back in January 2017, is Natalie Cairns.

The 28-year-old’s sister encouraged her to visit the centre after she lost her job in retail.

“Going through school, I was bullied quite a lot, which really affected my self-confidence,” Natalie said.

“When I then became unemployed, I just felt so low and useless. “I wouldn’t leave the house. “I forced myself to go along to the Star Project and I haven’t looked back since.”

Thriving from day one, Natalie has taken part in a variety of classes and clubs.

From putting her creative talents to good use, to keeping fit and improving her self-esteem, Natalie cann eno

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