ALMOST £1 million has been awarded to a project helping children growing up in difficult family circumstances.

The scheme – a partnership of local voluntary sector organisations and public services – has been given a £900,000 grant by the Big Lottery Fund (BIG). Led by Vestia Community Trust, the project will see about 100 families in Worcester, Pershore and Redditch benefit from tailored support from groups including Worcestershire County Council, EPIC Community Interest Company, Worcester Community Trust and Onside Advocacy.

It will work closely with families to offer support depending on their individual needs and build on existing family strengths to help children achieve their full potential.

Nick Parker, of Vestia, said: “Too often, families cannot get the help they need, when they need it.

“By giving families more control over the process, they can ensure they get the right support, at the right time, in the right way.

“When we consulted families about this project, the services they identified included family counselling, parenting courses – and one child wanted extra tutoring to help him catch up in class. Through this project we can offer practical support the family know will help them get back on their feet.” The project is backed by Worcestershire County Council, which has provided £100,000 match-funding.

Support will be provided by a family worker who will help families with any immediate issues before supporting them to develop their own family plan.

This plan will highlight the families’ strengths, positive changes the family wish to achieve, and any barriers that are preventing them.

The plan will then be used to get the help and support the children and parents need to transform their lives, such as counselling or debt advice. John Taylor, BIG’s regional chief, said: “Too many families in difficult circumstances still don’t know who to turn to for help.”