A SUPPORT worker from Darwen is heading out to the Gambia later this month on a two-week study tour.

Janette Smith, 49, from charity Alternative Futures Group (AFG), is travelling to Africa with four colleagues as ambassadors for the organisation which provides support to adults with learning disabilities and mental health needs.

It is the third tour and is part of a two-year partnership programme with Gambian charity Mobee, which sees the AFG ambassadors share their experiences and help with health and wellbeing matters.

Janette, a support worker who lives in Blackburn Road, said: “I am really excited about the study trip and looking forward to learning about mental health issues in Gambia and experiencing the culture.

“It is also an opportunity to share some of my experiences from working as a support worker in the UK.

“It would be great if, as a result of the project, we can help those in need and hopefully start to change perceptions.”

The group leaves later this month.