PARENTS caring for disabled youngsters are to get more support in the Stockton area thanks to a cash injection from the borough council.

Stockton Council has awarded ten Group Access Grants worth up to £30,000 in total to help families receive the support they require.

The grants have been awarded to local organisations The George Hardwick Foundation and Jack in the Box to ensure disabled youngsters are able to access a wide variety of activities.

The two organisations will now provide a range of activities for disabled children including a holiday play scheme, martial arts and yoga, dance and performing, different cultural activities and archery for young people.

Councillor Ann McCoy, the council’s cabinet member for children and young people, said: “A consultation exercise was undertaken with parents caring for disabled children last year by Stockton United for Change, Stockton’s parent participation group.

“It was identified that parents wanted more activities in the holiday periods for under eights, as well as a wider range of activities for children of all ages. The Group Access Grants have been developed in response to this.

“We’re delighted to continue in our commitment to listening and responding to parent’s requests and award these grants to organisations that will provide these new activities – helping to provide enjoyment and interest for children with disabilities.”

The George Hardwick Foundation supports more than 5,000 carers in the borough and George’s Place, which is based within The George Hardwick Foundation, supports all children with complex and additional needs.

Ingrid Brough-Williams, centre manager of The George Hardwick Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to receive this grant – it provides a wonderful opportunity to expand our services so that we can welcome even more children to ‘George’s Place’ helping them to discover and learn new activities in a supportive and caring environment.”

Jack in the Box develops existing provision and inspires individuals to engage in a variety of activities to aid in the social, emotional and physical development of children, young people and adults with disabilities or additional needs.

Youngsters across the borough will be able to try anything from paintballing to swimming and arts and crafts to cookery club as a result of the funding.