A BARROW youth group has been awarded almost £10,000 to help broaden their services.

Dropzone Youth Projects, based in Bath Street, was given the money to help hire another member of staff.

A total of £9,936 was granted to Dropzone by the Barrow Local Committee after it applied for funding to continue some specific work with youngsters in Barrow, Dalton, Ormsgill and Askam.

Cath Corkill, project manager at Drop Zone said: “We would love to give a huge thanks to the council for the grant.

“I’m very happy to see that the council recognise that there is a need for youth work and services like ours in Barrow. We really in need of an extra person to help with Dropzone so this money will help finance getting that crucial extra body on board.

“Different government cuts have really taken a toll on the options available to young people, so it’s more vital than ever.”

Dropzone is said to help provide a “safe place” for youngsters to meet and build their communication skills, self-esteem and emotional resilience.

The project is also credited with reducing anti-social behaviour and the cutting the chances of young people not entering employment, education or training.

A report before councillors said: “Dropzone believes that positive activities for young people enable communities to build bridges and reduce the negative view some people have of young people hanging around outside.

Councillor Anne Burns (Lab, Hindpool) told the meeting that mental health was a major issue for young people in the area.