Big Lottery Funding cash boost for Essex support groups

Support services for vulnerable people living in Essex are to receive more than £1m in National Lottery funding.

The Southend-based South East Essex Advocacy for Older People and SoS Domestic Abuse Project will get £424,817 and £366,722 respectively.

The Open Road Visions charity in Colchester has received £285,359 to restart one of its drug rehabilitation projects.

The money has come from the Big Lottery Fund's Reaching Communities programme.

The Stimulant Service helps people addicted to substances such as crack cocaine.

'Absolutely delighted'

The money given to the South East Essex Advocacy for Older People will enable the project to continue for a further five years, having previously been running on money from a bequest.

The charity advises people aged over 60 on matters such as financial issues, disputes and housing.

Director, Pat Biddington, said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive this grant.

"It will ensure older people in Southend are treated with dignity, respect and helped to make informed choices."

The SoS Domestic Abuse Project will use the money to increase provision for the victims they support and keep its crisis centre open.