£400,000 project to give tots a better start

Oldham’s vulnerable toddlers will get a better start in life thanks to a grant of almost £400,000 for The Children’s Society from the Big Lottery Fund.

The money will help the charity to build an early-years support network which it ishoped will transform the lives of under-threes and their parents in Oldham, Bolton, Rochdale, Salford and Manchester.

The programme will ensure children have the communication, emotional and social skills to prepare them for school. Family mentors and lifestyle support will play a part in improving early-years development.