THE future of a charity which provides invaluable support to young and old across Teesdale has been secured thanks to a cash injection of more than £300.

Teesdale YMCA, based in Barnard Castle, is one of 41 projects to receive a chunk of the £1,571,330 being handed out by the Big Lottery Fund across the North-East.

The organisation offers training, education, support, advice and youth and community development.

Don Irving, who stepped into the role of chief executive officer this month, said the award of £314,806 would make up the core costs to keep the charity afloat in the coming years.

Mr Irving added: “The board, workers and community are delighted to receive the grant from the Big Lottery.

“It secures our future for the next few years. We’re over the moon.

“It enables us to crack on with projects running and working with young people and others in Barnard Castle and beyond.”

The charity, which has centres in Barnard Castle, Cockfield and Evenwood, helps vulnerable people and those suffering from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, through various activities at the centre in Barnard Castle and a community café.

Young people will also be supported with a youth alcohol and drugs project, and training and education sessions.

“The heart of the Teesdale YMCA is to work with young people,” said Mr Irving. “We run a variety of services and we will continue running, developing and expanding our programmes.

“We have drop in facilities and after school clubs, community cafes, sexual health for young people and we provide facilities for young people struggling with education.

“There is a big focus on employability and we have street based work for young people who choose not to access existing provision. This could be on the street or in open spaces.

“We are an inclusive Christian association working with the wider community regardless of ethnicity, faith or gender.”

The funding is awarded to a diverse range of projects that enable people to improve their skills, meet new people and strengthen their communities.

James Harcourt, Big Lottery Fund deputy director of responsive programmes, said: “It’s great to see so many projects in the North-East bringing a positive change to their communities.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, the funding announced today will support people to overcome barriers, learn new skills and improve their lives for the future.”