THOUSANDS of pounds have been given to a family centre in a bid to help survivors of domestic abuse.

The Ark Centre in Harwich was awarded the grant of £14,194 by the People’s Health Trust as part of their Active Communities initiative.

The money has been raised by HealthStrength, through the Health Lottery.

A new 24-month project at the centre on Main Road will aim to deliver twice weekly support sessions for women and children affected by domestic abuse.

Centre manager Sally Johns Green, said: “We are pleased to have their support and it will enable us to support a great many more."