THE Minehead EYE has been awarded £29,946 in new funding from BBC Children in Need to provide a youth inclusion programme for vulnerable young people who are at risk of isolation.

Over the next three years, the grant will help fund a youth inclusion worker who will facilitate access to practical and fun activities for more than 250 young people across West Somerset.

At the project, young people can enjoy making music with adapted equipment, taking part in art or dance sessions, playing team sports, cooking a healthy meal or simply spending quality time with their peers in a fully-supported and youth-led environment.

Whether providing leisure opportunities, life skills workshops or engaging community events, the group works flexibly to meet young people’s needs, allowing them to shape activities in order to build their confidence and independence.

Paul Matcham, development manager at the Minehead EYE said: “Thanks to this grant from BBC Children in Need we will be able to enhance our services, and put in place a qualified worker who understands the range of challenges impacting young people in our area.

"We want this project to be as effective for them as possible, so building trust and relationships will be key, as we aim to strengthen the support network around the most disadvantaged in our community.”

This is the third time that BBC Children in Need has awarded new funding to projects across the UK this year. This latest boost of funding, from the charity’s Small Grants programme, brings the total currently invested in Somerset to more than £1million.

Richard King, BBC Children in Need regional officer said: “We are delighted to award Minehead EYE for their work with children and young people in Somerset.

"Our funding is already making a difference locally by supporting opportunities that help children and young people overcome a number of challenges to their happiness, safety and security.

"We look forward to seeing this latest grant in action over the coming weeks, and are keen to hear from other projects benefiting vulnerable young lives in the area.”

BBC Children in Need's chief executive, Simon Antrobus added: “At BBC Children in Need the grants that we award, no matter how big or small, support some of the most disadvantaged children and young people in communities across the UK."

BBC Children in Need awards grants at seven points during the year and funds two types of grants, both of which are open to new or existing applicants. A Main Grants Programme is for grants over £10,000 per year to support projects for up to three years. Meanwhile, a Small Grants Programme includes grants up to and including £10,000, and has been refreshed to support projects for up to three years. Projects working with children and young people facing any kind of disadvantage can find out more on how to apply for funding at bbc.co.uk/pudsey/grants.