CHILDREN and young people throughout the Vale could be in line for some Government funding to help them tackle new activities or join a club.

The Positive Opportunities Worcestershire (POW) money is available for youngsters whose families may find it difficult to pay for activities, or who are in care. All children who currently claim free school meals will automatically qualify for POW money.

This money can be spent on activities offered at school or other places, like leisure centres or clubs. It can also pay fees for clubs such as Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Brownies and many other organisations, even to join a local football team or music group.

Rachel Denton, Worcestershire County Council's extended services cluster manager, said: "Children who accessed POW over the last few months have told us it is a great opportunity to do something new, and they have accessed a wide range of activities from street dancing to theatre trips."

To find out if a child can get POW money parents or carers will need to speak to the child's school. Families who currently claim free school meals or children and young people who are looked after will be able to make an application.

POW is funded and supported by Worcestershire County Council's extended services in and around schools team. To find out more visit worcestershire.gov.uk/pow