YOUNG people's charities and support groups in Southampton are to receive a share of a government cash windfall over the next three years.

Southampton's Children's Fund which helps vulnerable youngsters in the city was awarded nearly £2m by ministers.

The fund hands out grants to groups such as Mencap to help develop a wide range of services for disadvantaged young people.

It targets five to 13-year-olds as part of the government's national strategy to tackle disadvantages and inequalities that arise from child poverty and social exclusion.

The services include skills programmes, projects for special needs youngsters such as accessible play schemes and support workers for vulnerable young people.

Funds can also be used to help parents with parenting skills and with other issues such as domestic violence and health. The project was started three years ago and has already received about £2.4m of government money.

Council Cabinet member Calvin Horner said: "This is excellent news for the children of the city. Children's Fund activities over the past three years have been invaluable in improving the lives of young people across Southampton.

"The further award of nearly £2m means this work can continue to make a real difference in our communities."