A GROUP which aims to offer shelter for homeless young people in Pendle has scooped a £194,000 National Lottery Charities Board jackpot to launch the scheme.

The award will enable the Pendle Action for the Community charity to lease, furnish and manage two houses in Nelson to provide emergency accommodation for nine young people.

The grant, over three years, will fund the full time salaries of a manager and resettlement worker, volunteer and recruitment costs, training consultancy and furniture. The award, aimed at tackling poverty and disadvantage, is one of seven worth £946,000 for Lancashire.

Pendle Action is a charity whose members include social services, council, youth and community and careers service representatives.

It has offered community help in many areas, including initiatives for the elderly and to tackle crime and disorder.

Secretary Susan Baker said the National Lottery grant as very good news for the charity enabling it to meet demand in an area of great need.

"There are many young people sleeping rough or in most unsatisfactory conditions.

"Now for the first time in Pendle, we will be able to help them."

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