A COMMUNITY group which uses dogs to tackle social isolation, low-self esteem and depression needs votes to help them win £50,000 in funding.

Dogs for Development, based on Colchester Road, West Mersea, has been selected as one of five finalists in Anglia East's People's Projects competition.

Pooches are used in sessions with vulnerable children and adults who may have learning disabilities or autism, and can help them develop confidence and social skills.

If they win the money, the group hope to build an indoor facility, so sessions no longer have to be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions and to reach more children and young people in schools in Essex and Suffolk.

Therapist Natalia Bate said: "Dogs make great companions therapeutically because they respond to human emotions, love unconditionally and crucially, dogs do not judge.

"The funding will help us promote positive dog-human relationships and will tackle social isolation, low self-esteem and depression many children face every day.”

The money available comes from The Big Lottery Fund, ITV and The National Lottery.

Voting is open at the peoplesprojects.org.uk and closes on April 3.