BBC Children in Need give £63,000 to Northampton charity to help disadvantaged children

Blackthorn Good Neighbours received a two-year grant to cover staff, support sessions and activities for children and families affected by poverty and deprivation.

The project’s holistic approach to family services will benefit nearly 140 local young people from early years up to the age of 18, helping to reduce challenging behaviour, whilst developing their confidence and improving family relationships.

Kathryn White, business manager at Blackthorn Good Neighbours, said: “We are so grateful to receive BBC Children in Need funding, as it will allow us to provide one to one, targeted support to children with behavioural issues and their families.

“We believe that providing parents with expert advice on routines, boundaries and positive behaviour can help them ensure their child’s wellbeing and improve their experiences outside of the home.”

Speaking of the new grants, Melinda Connelly, BBC Children in Need regional head of the central region, said: “All of the projects that we fund make a tangible difference to young lives, and Blackthorn Good Neighbours is no exception. In the months ahead they’ll work closely with some of the young people in Northampton that need it most. To all our fundraisers who have made these grants possible, a very big thank you.”

BBC Children in Need’s chief executive, David Ramsden, added: “Put simply, these grants are made possible by our amazing supporters. Thank you, everybody should feel incredibly proud of the difference they are making to young lives.”

For details about how to apply for a grant, visit bbc.co.uk/pudsey/grants.