AN AWARD-winning Keighley drugs and alcohol agency has received a lottery boost.

Project 6 has been awarded £9,401 to continue providing services for women with domestic violence and substance misuse problems.

Practical and emotional support is offered.

The Temple Street charity is among five community organisations in the area celebrating cash handouts from the Big Lottery Fund.

Across Yorkshire and the Humber, more than 350 groups have shared a £6.7 million pot.

Vicky Beere, chief executive officer of Project 6, said the award was a welcome boost at the end of a challenging year for the organisation – which has seen a contract change, budget cuts and staff losses.

"It's fantastic to have this backing from the Big Lottery which will ensure that women can continue to gain support and be safer and healthier," she said.

"We're still working hard to secure more funds to ensure this crucial service can be sustained, and we're grateful to the Big Lottery for recognising its value."

The charity has also recently received an £80,000 grant from the Garfield Weston Foundation, which will help develop infrastructure following a merger with Sheffield Alcohol Support Service.

Project 6 last year won a Weston Charity Award, which has provided it with 12 months of expertise, support and mentoring, culminating with financial backing.

Other organisations to receive lottery funding include the Get Out More social enterprise, for its Breathe Keighley project.

The group, awarded £7,000, will create outdoor trails to help people from diverse communities connect with nature.

Bracken Bank and District Community Association has been given £9,880 for a range of activities to improve community cohesion and develop people's lifeskills.

Sutton Church of England Primary School is also among the beneficiaries.

It was awarded £9,999 to install an outdoor shelter, with play panels and seating.

"The scheme is to provide pupils with a place to play during inclement weather – with the aim of reducing anxiety and improving behaviours," said a spokesman.

And Cowling Parish Council has received £9,815 for its Middleton and Ickornshaw Play Project.

Outdoor play equipment will be installed for use by children in the community.

James Harcourt, for the Big Lottery Fund, said: "We are proud to be able to distribute National Lottery money to community groups that are making a real difference in Yorkshire and the Humber.

"When you hear about projects like these you realise the incredible impact the money generated by National Lottery players is having across England. It really is life changing."