Children and parents in Jaywick and West Clacton are to benefit from a new initiative which will see more than £1.5 million pumped into the community.

The Government has accepted a bid by the area to join its Sure Start programme aimed at giving youngsters a better start in life.

Parents will also get a major say in how the money is spent.

Estelle Morris, Secretary of State for Education and Skills, said a grant of £1,541,164 would be made available over the next three years.

"In addition, there will be funding of up to £700,000 for projects - subject to the submission and approval of detailed plans," she said.

Tendring was one of the districts invited to draw up proposals for a third round of the Sure Start programme last year through the district council.

The community formed a partnership which has been working to consult with residents and put together a plan for the services they need to make sure children get a good start in life.

Officials from Sure Start will be on hand to provide support and guidance for the scheme. The focus will be on every family in the target area and will provide new, improved services for those with a child under four.

The partnership involves Tendring Council, the health authority, Tendring Primary Care Trust, Essex Police, Essex County Council, local voluntary organisations and the Adult Eduaction College.

By Nigel Brown

Reporter's e-mail: nigel_brown@thisisessex.co.uk

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