Big Lottery Fund boost for County Durham youth group
Disadvantaged young people in County Durham are to benefit from more than £250,000 of lottery funding.
The cash, awarded by the Big Lottery Fund to Groundwork North East aims to reduce anti-social behaviour.
It works to improve the mental and physical health of eight to 19-year-olds and offers sessions on drug and alcohol awareness, as well sporting and social activities.
Some of the funding will be used to set up a one-to-one counselling service.
The group will be focusing its work in the Consett, Stanley, Easington, Blackhall and Horden areas.
James Turner, Big Lottery Fund's head of the North East region, said: "It is crucial for young people to get the best start in life, to be healthy and encouraged towards positive and inspirational activities.
"The Groundwork North East project will help around 3,000 young people in Durham make better choices to take them towards a better future.
"All of these grants across our region will improve the lives of thousands of the most vulnerable people and help build stronger communities."