TWO projects for disadvantaged children and young people have received a share of nearly £85,000.

BBC Children in Need has awarded a grants of £84,702 to be split between TAPE Community Music & Film and Home-Start Conwy to support activities such as weekend trips, cooking and sports workshops and play sessions for younger children.

The funding follows BBC Children in Need’s 2020 Appeal in November, which raised £57million to fund the charity’s work and that of others around the UK.

TAPE will use a three-year main grant of £66,052 to deliver creative support to children and young people with speech, language and communication challenges.

The project enables young people to take part in a wide range of social activities that seek to encourage conversation, teamwork, build resilience and make greater connections.

By offering activities which include the arts, cooking, sports, small group outings and residential weekend trips, it provides an opportunity for young people to have a voice, express concerns and focus on aspirations for the future, ultimately helping to build self-esteem and confidence.

Steve Swindon, creative director at TAPE Community Music & Film said: “With this funding from BBC Children in Need, we can continue our work improving the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people in the local community.

“Our aim is to improve their communication skills, strengthen their confidence and to help them feel less isolated through a wide range of tailored activities.

“It’s incredible to see first-hand the benefits our project provides to children and young people - since we began, families have consistently reported an improvement in behaviour and family life which is fantastic. Thank you so much.”

Home-Start Conwy has also benefitted in the latest round, receiving a two-year grant of £18,650 to fund a playworker to run play sessions for children and young people experiencing social isolation.

Activities will include craft workshops and creative sessions all tailored to specific age-groups to ensure children and young people are getting the most beneficial experience to increase their confidence and social interactions.

The project aims to deliver better opportunities to play, reduced social isolation within the community and an improved chance of children and young people reaching their full potential.

Sylvia Chadwick, manager at Home-Start Conwy, said: “The support from BBC Children in Need is so hugely appreciated from everyone here at Home-Start Conwy. With this new funding, we can expand our project by offering children and young people the chance to socialise and play in a safe and welcoming environment.

“The paid play worker will organise and supervise these groups with the help of volunteers, ensuring reduced social isolation and increased social interaction within the community.”

Melinda Connelly, national head of Wales at BBC Children in Need, said: “We are again overwhelmed by the support and generosity shown by BBC Children in Need supporters.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us fund these extraordinary local charities, allowing them to continue driving instrumental work in helping to change the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across Wales.”