A NEW report has revealed how council funding for voluntary organisations plays a vital role in helping to improve people's quality of life.

Almost £400,000 was awarded to 36 groups from Hartlepool Borough Council's Community Pool in 2004/05.

The worth of the grants is detailed in a recent report which shows that:

* The number of staff employed by groups receiving support totals 220. Of those, 41 have their salary costs met from the Community Pool.

* The amount of welfare benefits secured for local residents by two supported organisations totalled £2.2m.

* In the 2004/05 financial year, 342 volunteers, worked a total of 2,195 hours a week for grant-supported groups..

Councillor Peter Jackson, the council's finance and performance management portfolio holder, said: "This report highlights two things - the excellent work being carried out by voluntary sector organisations across the town and the importance of the financial support that the council provides.

"The important role played by voluntary sector organisations in improving local people's lives is highlighted by the fact that two groups alone, the Hartlepool Citizens Advice Bureau and West View Advice and Resource Centre, have helped residents obtain £2.2m in additional welfare benefits

"Both the council and the voluntary sector face challenges in the future, due to budget pressures and reductions in funding, but it is important that we continue to work together closely for the good of the town."