A community-based trust gets £900k to help children

A project helping under-privileged young children in Worcestershire has been given £900,000 from the Big Lottery Fund.

Around 100 families in areas of Redditch, Worcester and Pershore will be helped by the project run by the Vestia Community Trust.

A dedicated worker will now help each family plan the support they need.

Nick Parker from Vestia said: "They can ensure they get the right support, at the right time, in the right way."

'Vulnerable children'

The support worker will help each family highlight its strengths, the positive changes they wish to achieve and attempt to overcome any barriers that are holding them back.

The plan worked out by each family will be used to bid for help including family counselling, parenting courses and debt advice.

The project is a partnership of local voluntary sector organisations and public services.

Worcestershire County Council has given £100,000 of match funding.

John Taylor, from the Big Lottery Fund, said: "By mobilising all those who can help at a local level in a coordinated way, this project will improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in Worcester, Redditch and Pershore."