HELENSBURGH’S MP has called on local youth groups and voluntary organisations to apply for funding from the ‘Young Start’ programme.

Run by the Big Lottery Fund Scotland for the Scottish Government, Young Start awards are granted to voluntary sector organisations that help young people aged 8-24 to reach their full potential.

Over the next three years, approximately £18 million is available, and local groups now have the opportunity to apply for grants between £10 and £100k.

Brendan O’Hara said: “The Young Start programme offers a fantastic opportunity for grassroots organisations within Argyll and Bute to benefit from additional funding.

“In this tough financial climate and when an increasing number of people are relying on voluntary organisations for support, these grants can offer a lifeline and can go towards enabling many local organisations, groups and local projects to continue the great work they do in Argyll and Bute.”