PROJECTS across Gwent have received a £220,000 share of a funding pot to help improve family support services in Wales.

The 2016/ 17 funding, announced yesterday (Feb 23) by Welsh Government's communities and children secretary, Carl Sargeant, has been allocated to 33 Flying Start projects in Wales.

Flying Start supports families living in some of the most disadvantaged communities, offering weekly childcare for 2-3 year olds, speech development sessions and parenting support.

Gwent projects are set to benefit from a £220,000 share of the pot, with the highest amount, £89,000, being invested across Caerphilly county borough.

This will include the maintenance and refurbishment of around 20 Flying Start buildings in Caerphilly county borough that have been in use for around 10 years.

The Pantside Integrated Children’s Centre, in Caerphilly, will receive £39,000 to fit new windows, improve energy efficiency and stop water getting into the building.

Newport will receive £40,000 across 18 settings and another £40,000 towards the Gaer Community Centre to improve outdoor play facilities, equipment and toilets.

Blaenau Gwent’s First Friends Childcare Centre will receive £12,000 to replace a boundary fence and landscaping in the outdoor play area.

Mr Sargeant, announcing the funding, said: “Giving children the best possible start in life is a top priority for the Welsh Government.

"Flying Start is a key early intervention programme, helping to improve children’s life chances and reducing the need for later remedial action.

"It is a useful tool in tackling adverse childhood experiences which can have a long-lasting impact on young people throughout their lives."

He added: “This is why we provide over £70 million a year in revenue funding to Local Authorities to deliver the scheme and why we have already provided £3m of capital funding this year alone to ensure the children have the best possible facilities.

"This extra £800,000 will ensure more children have a stimulating and exciting environment in which to play and learn.”