A PROGRAMME to help children overcome poverty and disadvantage worth up to £2.4m during three years has been approved.

Middlesbrough Borough Council will spend the money on providing additional services focusing on families and communities.

The scheme's expected outcomes are a reduction in truancy, improved academic results, less crime, fewer children entering care, and stronger communities.

The cash will come from the Children and Young People's Unit. Middlesbrough is among the first to apply for its funds.