Three south Essex charities were today gearing up to expand their services, after receiving more than £500,000 in lottery cash handouts.

Southend Women's Aid is using its £450,000 grant to develop a centre offering therapy and training for women and children who are threatened with violence.

The charity's Dove Project, based in West Road, Westcliff, offers counselling to individuals or groups.

Deputy manager Sheran Bolton said: "This is the second lottery grant we have been awarded in three years and we're delighted to receive the money.

"We can build on the work we have already achieved, and offer new services like outreach work, which means our staff will visit families who are unable to come into the centre for whatever reason."

The fact that domestic violence figures appear to be on the increase may be attributed to a greater willingness to report cases - rather than because more incidents are actually occurring, she added.

Castle Point Association of Voluntary Services, in Long Road, Canvey, received £102,000 from the National Lotteries Charities Board.

The organisation provides support for other charities in the area, with a research centre, photocopying facilities and charity advisors on hand.

Co-ordinator Chris Moran is delighted with the funding, saying it would enable more vital services to be provided.

She said: "We received lottery funding before, but that was for a part-time bureau.

"With this new money we are providing a full-time service, with two part-time and one full-time member of staff.

"That means charities in the area can continue to rely on us for support."

More practical repairs were weighing on the minds of staff at Hullbridge Senior Citizens' Welfare Council, in Windermere Avenue, Hullbridge, who have just been awarded £6,500 to fix a leaky roof.

Treasurer Neil Williams said: "We have been doing patchwork repairs to our flat roof for a couple of years, but it became clear major work was needed.

"We're hoping to have a new roof in time for winter - and it comes with a 15-year guarantee."

The day centre provides a warm environment for people aged over 50 in the area to eat and meet, with pool, darts and bingo on offer.

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