A SCHEME supporting sports development will benefit disadvantaged youngsters in the region.

Grants of between £500 and £4,000 are now available for projects aiming to change young people’s lives through sport or physical activity.

The joint scheme – from Sported and the County Durham Community Foundation – was established in a bid to eradicate barriers for marginalised 11 to 25-year-olds, reduce antisocial behaviour and build stronger communities.

Organisations interested in applying for a grant must first apply for a free Sported membership at sported.org.uk.

For information on eligibility and applications, email s.hillyard@sported.org.uk.