A VITAL community centre has received thousands of pounds to put towards a programme which provides support for vulnerable people.

Witham Community Hub, at the Grove Shopping Centre, has received a donation of £5,000 from Witham Town Council to put towards its Hold programme.

The programme aims to help vulnerable people in the community before they fall into crisis.

It includes free support, impartial advice and help with completing paperwork such as PIP, universal tax credit, housing applications, maternity payments, state pension, child benefit and Blue Badge applications.

Tina Townsend, chair of the centre’s board of trustees, said:  “We are immensely grateful to the communities committee at Witham Town Council for their generous donation. 

"It will help us to significantly develop the Hold Programme, which we feel provides a vital, proactive service in helping local people at a critical time in their lives, before they find themselves unable to cope.

"Sometimes life can seem like an overwhelming obstacle course and we are here to help people deal with those obstacles, one by one, without losing hope.”

The hub also works with organisations such as schools, GPs, businesses and other charities.

These organisations refer people who they believe may need help and support in managing their lives before they become too difficult to manage alone.

A major aim is to raise awareness that support is available from the hub and the many facilities and supportive events it offers. 

A spokesman for Witham Town Council said: “We are delighted to be able to support such a welcome initiative.

"The work that Tina and her team have put in over the past few challenging years is astounding.

"We know that far too many members of our community are struggling and so any additional resources that can aid with that struggle are invaluable. 

“The hub is providing hope to those families that just need a little something to help them get by. Supporting this project grants a lifeline for our community at a time when it’s most needed.”

For more information head to: www.withamhub.co.uk