A CHARITY which helps support teenagers facing up to drug and alcohol issues has received a financial boost.

The 700 Club in Darlington was awarded £5,000 through the Yorkshire Bank Spirit of the Community Awards to recognise the important role it plays in the local community.

It was among fifteen community groups across England were selected to share funding of £80,000 to make a real difference in their local area.

Founded in 1996, the club provides supported hostel accommodation and support services to 16-18 year olds facing drug and alcohol issues. The charity was awarded the cash to deliver a ‘task and finish’ intervention programme designed to help individuals engage with drugs, alcohol and mental health services.

John Elliston, the chief executive of the club, said: “The generous award will be invaluable for supporting some of Darlington’s most vulnerable and chaotic individuals.

"This funding will allow us to expand our service to those who are in housing need and have drug and alcohol issues. The award will be used to offer a street level intervention programme, bringing order to chaotic lives.”

Now in its fifth year, the awards programme aims to recognise charities and not for profit organisations for the invaluable contributions they make to their local communities.

Groups were invited to enter the awards programme under one of three categories; projects which help people to have a healthy relationship with money, projects which help people to improve their local environment and projects which help people into employment.