New Government fund aims to support struggling families across the North West
The Better Futures Fund, launched by Chancellor Rachel Reeves during a visit to a school in Wigan, aims to help up to 200,000 children and families across the country over the next ten years.
The fund is designed to bring together local councils, charities, social enterprises and community groups to provide early support to children facing disadvantage.
That could include support in schools to boost attendance and behaviour, help for young people at risk of crime and employment support to secure brighter futures.
Wigan-based charity AllChild, which hosted the launch, has already seen success with local projects, reporting a reduction in persistent school absence and improvements in children's wellbeing.
Louisa Mitchell MBE, Chief Executive of AllChild, said: 'I warmly welcome the government's Better Futures Fund as a pivotal step toward transforming how we support children and families across the country.
"It's vital that children engage with the right support and opportunities, at the right time, in the right way."
The government says the fund, which is the largest of its kind globally, forms part of a wider Plan for Change to give every child a safe home, access to education, and opportunities to succeed.
But some in the region are urging caution. Community organisations say that while the fund is welcome, it must be matched with long-term investment and practical support for overstretched local services.
Greater Manchester has already seen social outcomes partnerships in action, including programmes to help young people avoid homelessness and reoffending. Local leaders say continued support will be crucial to expand those efforts.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "This fund will give hundreds of thousands of children, young people and their families a better chance.
"For too long, these children have been overlooked. Our Plan for Change will break down barriers to opportunity and give them the best start in life."
Further details of how the Better Futures Fund will be rolled out in the North West are expected later this year.
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